Sheriff: Spokane arson suspect in custody

August 4, 2026

Law enforcement in Spokane has arrested a 37-year-old man named Aaron Farinacci on Monday in connection with deliberately starting the Old Trails Fire, which is the most extensive of three major wildfires currently burning in the region. The wildfires have caused catastrophic damage throughout Washington's second-largest city and surrounding areas, resulting in the destruction of more than 700 structures and displacing over 60,000 residents who were forced to leave their homes. Farinacci faces charges of first-degree arson and has a criminal history that includes a previous felony manslaughter conviction from Arizona.

Who is affected

Aaron Farinacci, 37 (arrested suspect)
Over 60,000 people forced to evacuate
Communities in and around Spokane, Washington
Building owners (over 700 buildings destroyed)

What action is being taken

Three wildfires are currently burning around Spokane
Aaron Farinacci is in custody following his Monday arrest on suspicion of first-degree arson

Why it matters

This is a catastrophic event for Washington's second-largest city, with massive property destruction (over 700 buildings lost) and displacement of tens of thousands of residents. The arrest of a suspect on arson charges indicates the largest fire may have been deliberately set rather than naturally occurring, which has significant legal and community safety implications.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: BBC