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Authorities have arrested a Spokane man accused of starting the largest of three major wildfires burning around the eastern Washington city. The Old Trails Fire arson arrest comes after the blazes destroyed hundreds of structures and displaced tens of thousands of residents.
The suspect was identified as Aaron F. Farinacci, 37. Deputies arrested him Monday and booked him on suspicion of first-degree arson.
Community Tip Leads to Old Trails Fire Arson Arrest
A community member helped investigators identify Farinacci. The witness reported seeing a nervous-looking man crouched beside a road near dry grass.
Deputies initially questioned Farinacci but released him because they lacked enough evidence for an arrest. Detectives later determined that the Old Trails Fire began near the location described by the witness.
Farinacci reportedly had matches and a lighter when deputies detained him. Investigators have not publicly released further evidence from the case.
Farinacci was being held on a $1 million bond and was expected to appear in court Tuesday. It remained unclear whether an attorney was representing him.
The allegations have not been proven in court. Farinacci is presumed innocent unless convicted.
Fire Spreads Through Spokane Area
The Old Trails Fire started Saturday northwest of downtown Spokane. It quickly spread through dry grass and brush before crossing the Spokane River and reaching residential neighborhoods.
High temperatures and strong winds helped drive the flames. Residents faced rapidly changing evacuation orders as firefighters worked to protect homes and control the fire’s perimeter.
The Old Trails Fire is the largest of three major fires burning in and around Spokane. The other incidents are the Fairview Fire and Meadowview Fire.
The causes of those two fires had not been announced as of Tuesday morning. Investigations into their origins remained active.
Together, the fires have destroyed at least 700 homes, businesses and other structures. About 67,000 people have received evacuation orders.
The fires remained uncontained Tuesday morning. Damage assessments were still underway, meaning the number of affected structures could increase.
Emergency Response Continues
Washington Gov. Bob Ferguson declared a state of emergency Saturday as dangerous fire conditions spread across the state. The declaration allows agencies to coordinate personnel, equipment and other emergency resources.
Firefighters continue working in hot, dry conditions throughout eastern Washington. Some roads remain closed, while evacuation levels may change depending on wind and fire activity.
Residents have been urged to follow evacuation instructions and avoid restricted neighborhoods. Entering evacuation zones can expose people to falling trees, damaged power lines and active flames. It can also interfere with emergency crews.
Families should continue monitoring local alerts for updated evacuation maps, shelter information and road closures. Those ordered to leave should bring identification, medications, essential documents and supplies for children and pets.
The investigation into the Old Trails Fire remains active. Anyone with relevant information should contact local law enforcement. Residents in threatened areas should remain prepared to evacuate as conditions change.