Arson Charge Filed in Devastating Spokane Wildfire

The man accused of igniting the largest wildfire in eastern Washington has faced serious criminal charges before. Previously charged with first-degree murder, he pleaded guilty to manslaughter, court records reveal. Aaron F. Farinacci, 37, was arrested on suspicion of first-degree arson related to the Old Trails Fire, the biggest of the fires around Spokane.

The fires have destroyed approximately 700 buildings.

Over 67,000 people evacuated due to the blazes. Authorities have yet to establish any link between Farinacci and two additional fires still under investigation.

On the day of the arrest, former Washington Gov. Jay Inslee emphasized that climate change impacts local communities. Inslee remarked, “Climate change isn’t some existential global thing. It’s our neighbors. It’s our friends.” Farinacci had earlier faced charges of first-degree murder and aggravated assault due to a 2010 Arizona shooting incident. He fatally shot his father during a domestic dispute.

Following a guilty plea to manslaughter and aggravated assault, Farinacci was sentenced to 12 years in prison and released in 2020.

Less than six years post-release, Farinacci now faces another major charge. Spokane County detectives and fire investigators identified him after gathering probable cause. Arrest and search warrants were executed, leading to his booking into Spokane County Jail on the arson charge.

Authorities detailed reports from witnesses who saw a suspicious individual matching Farinacci’s description near the fire’s origin. These witnesses notified local police officers, aiding investigators in their pursuit. Officials initially questioned Farinacci, focusing on evacuations during the fire’s early stages.

Upon examining statements, footage, and physical evidence, detectives substantiated the arrest. Investigators believe the fire resulted from igniting dry grass with matches or a lighter, which Farinacci possessed when first contacted.

Spokane County Sheriff John Nowels acknowledged the community’s role in the quick suspect identification. State officials warned of additional charges pending the investigation’s outcome. Farinacci’s first court appearance was scheduled before Spokane County Criminal Court Commissioner Tony Hazel.