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Aaron Farinacci Accused of Starting Historic Spokane Wildfire After Being Spotted Acting Nervous in the Brush

Aaron Farinacci, a 37-year-old Spokane resident with a violent criminal history, has been charged with first-degree arson for allegedly starting the Old Trails fire. This blaze is part of a complex of three wildfires currently scorching over 10,000 acres in northeastern Washington, making it one of the most destructive fires in the state's history. Farinacci was identified by witness Paul Child, who observed him kneeling in the brush and acting nervous near the fire's origin. While Farinacci initially denied starting the fire, investigators noted he possessed waterproof matches and a butane lighter at the time of arrest. He previously served nearly a decade in prison for manslaughter and aggravated assault after fatally shooting his father during a domestic argument in 2010. Firefighters from two dozen states are currently working 16-hour shifts to establish containment lines. The Spokane Complex fire has already displaced over 60,000 people and destroyed nearly 850 structures. Authorities are currently awaiting an arraignment for Farinacci, who is being held on a $1 million bond.

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