A local witness in Spokane, Washington, provided the critical account that led to the arrest of 37-year-old Aaron Farinacci on arson charges. Paul Child, who was driving through a rural area near the city, noticed a man pacing near bushes on the side of the road. Fifteen minutes later, Child returned to find the same individual acting in a suspicious manner. Shortly after returning home, Child witnessed smoke rising from the exact location where he observed the man.
This tip proved vital for law enforcement. Authorities confirmed the origin of the Old Trails Fire matches the spot where witnesses saw Farinacci kneeling in the grass. Investigators determined the fire began when an open flame contacted vegetation, noting the scene is consistent with the use of a lighter or matches. Farinacci was detained shortly after the report, and deputies found him in possession of waterproof matches and a butane lighter during that initial interaction.
Farinacci faces charges of first-degree arson and is held on a $1 million bond. His criminal history includes a guilty plea for the 2010 manslaughter of his father, for which he served time until his 2020 release. Records show he was also questioned by police last year regarding other suspicious fires in the Spokane area, though he faced no charges at that time. Sheriff John Nowels confirmed detectives utilized body-worn camera footage to secure an arrest warrant earlier this week.
The Old Trails Fire represents one of three blazes currently threatening eastern Washington. These wildfires have consumed over 10,000 acres, forced mass evacuations, and destroyed hundreds of homes. Governor Bob Ferguson expressed the frustration of the community, noting that the intentional nature of the blaze adds a layer of heartbreak to the ongoing destruction caused by the wildfire event.
Local authorities continue their investigation while crews battle the uncontained fires throughout the region. Farinacci remains in custody as he awaits his scheduled arraignment. The assistance of residents who remain observant in their surroundings continues to be a primary tool for law enforcement during this period of crisis.