SPOKANE — A man charged in connection with a destructive wildfire in eastern Washington has admitted to starting the blaze, authorities said, as investigators continue examining whether he was responsible for additional fires in the region.
Aaron Farinacci, 37, was arrested and charged with first-degree arson in connection with the Old Trails Fire, one of several wildfires that swept through the Spokane area. Prosecutors said in court documents that Farinacci confessed to igniting the fire after investigators questioned him.
The Old Trails Fire was reported on Aug. 1 near Airway Heights, Washington, and became one of three major fires affecting the Spokane area. The blazes damaged or destroyed hundreds of structures and prompted widespread evacuations as firefighters worked to contain the fires under difficult weather conditions.
According to authorities, investigators linked Farinacci to the fire after witnesses reported suspicious activity near the ignition area and additional evidence was gathered. Court records cited by prosecutors said he had researched weather conditions before the fire and selected conditions involving strong winds and low humidity.
Prosecutors have also alleged that Farinacci admitted to starting other fires in the area, though investigators are continuing to verify those claims. Authorities said evidence has confirmed connections to some additional fires, while other reported incidents remain under investigation.
Farinacci faces multiple arson charges, and a judge set his bond at $2 million, citing public safety concerns, according to court information reported by authorities. His arraignment was delayed while a court-ordered mental competency evaluation was pending.
The Spokane County Sheriff’s Office and other agencies have continued investigating the causes of wildfires across the region. Officials have emphasized that suspected criminal activity in individual cases does not represent the cause of all wildfires currently affecting Washington state.
Fire crews remain engaged in suppression and recovery efforts, while authorities continue reviewing evidence related to the Old Trails Fire and other suspected arson cases.
