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Spokane area wildfire arson investigation

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2026-08-10 21:22 UTC → 2026-08-12 12:08 UTC · added removed

Aaron Farinacci, a resident of Spokane, Washington, has been arrested on suspicion of first-degree arson in connection with the Old Trails Fire. Farinacci has confessed to deliberately starting a series of wildfires, including the Old Trails Fire. Farinacci admitted to timing the arson to exploit high winds, Fire, claiming responsibility for more than two dozen fires in the Spokane area over the past year. He admitted to timing the arson to exploit high winds. Investigators identified Farinacci following witness reports, including an observation by Paul Child of a man acting suspiciously near railroad tracks shortly before smoke was detected. Bodycam footage shows authorities detaining a man matching the description with a fanny pack allegedly containing matches, cigarettes, and a lighter. The resulting blazes have caused significant destruction, with reports indicating that approximately 700 homes were destroyed by the Old Trails Fire alone. alone destroying nearly 700 homes and burning over 3,000 acres. Combined regional fires have impacted over more than 900 structures and burned more than over 10,000 acres. While the fires forced approximately 70,000 people to evacuate and caused widespread smoke issues across Washington, Portland, and Idaho, no deaths or serious injuries have been reported. Investigations into Farinacci have revealed a prior Farinacci’s criminal history includes serving 10 years in Arizona, where he served time Arizona for the 2010 killing of his father and the aggravated assault of his mother. Legal experts have noted that his previous plea deal, which reduced a first-degree murder charge to manslaughter, was unusual.

Versions

  1. 2026-08-12 12:08 UTC Spokane area wildfire arson investigation
  2. 2026-08-10 21:22 UTC Spokane area wildfire arson investigation

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