Spokane County Sheriff's Office detectives arrested Aaron F. Farinacci, 37, on Monday afternoon in connection with the Old Trails Fire. Farinacci faces a first-degree arson charge for allegedly starting the wildfire that destroyed hundreds of homes outside Spokane, Washington.
Sheriff John Nowels confirmed the arrest late Monday, saying an extensive investigation led to the identification and apprehension of Farinacci.
The Old Trails Fire began last week and rapidly spread through residential areas outside Spokane. Emergency services worked to contain the flames as residents fled, leaving behind properties confirmed as total losses for many families.
Detectives from the Spokane County Sheriff's Office Major Crimes unit worked with fire investigators from the Washington State Department of Natural Resources to build the case, developing the probable cause necessary for Farinacci's arrest.
Farinacci is a convicted felon, a detail authorities released during the announcement.
Investigators determined the Old Trails Fire was intentionally set, shifting the case from accidental ignition to criminal arson.
Many Spokane area residents remain displaced. First-degree arson carries substantial penalties under Washington state law. Farinacci is expected to be arraigned within days.
Local and state agencies continue to assess the damage and support affected families as recovery efforts proceed.
