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On April 14, 2025, the Spokane County Sheriff’s Office announced the arrest of 37-year-old Aaron Farinacci on suspicion of first-degree arson in connection with the devastating Old Trails Fire. The blaze has scorched thousands of acres, destroyed over 700 buildings, and forced the evacuation of more than 60,000 residents across Washington’s second-largest city and its surrounding communities. Firefighters continue to battle the flames amid challenging conditions.
The Old Trails Fire, which erupted late last week, remains the largest of three wildfires burning in the Spokane area. According to the Washington State Department of Natural Resources, the fire has consumed roughly 12,000 acres and is currently 25% contained as of Monday evening. Officials warn that gusty winds and low humidity could push the fire toward populated neighborhoods, prolonging evacuation orders for dozens of subdivisions.
Sheriff investigators apprehended Farinacci without incident at a residence in Spokane Valley on Monday morning. Authorities allege he intentionally set the fire that rapidly spread through dry brush and timber. Farinacci is being held at the Spokane County Jail without bail, pending a court appearance scheduled for Wednesday. Court records indicate he has a prior felony manslaughter conviction in Arizona, stemming from a 2015 incident in Maricopa County. Details of that case remain sealed, but sources confirm he served a prison sentence before relocating to Washington.
The human toll of the wildfires has been immense. Emergency shelters have been set up at the Spokane Convention Center and multiple high schools, housing thousands of displaced families. The Red Cross reports distributing over 10,000 meals and supplies daily. Local hospitals have treated dozens of residents for smoke inhalation and minor injuries. The Spokane County Emergency Management Director called the situation “unprecedented,” noting that the combined evacuation count exceeds that of any previous wildfire event in the region.
Governor Jay Inslee declared a state of emergency on Sunday, authorizing National Guard support and additional funding for firefighting efforts. In a statement, he said
