A man identified as Aaron F. Farinacci, aged 37, was arrested in connection with the largest wildfire currently affecting eastern Washington. This fire has destroyed hundreds of buildings and forced tens of thousands to evacuate. Prior court records show Farinacci had a previous conviction for manslaughter after originally being charged with first-degree murder.
Details of the Investigation
Farinacci faces suspicion of first-degree arson related to the Old Trails Fire, the foremost of three wildfires near Spokane, Washington’s second-largest city. The fires collectively have demolished at least 700 buildings and caused approximately 67,000 people to evacuate. Authorities state there is no known connection between Farinacci and the other two fires, which remain under investigation.
Former Washington Governor Jay Inslee addressed the wildfires, attributing their devastating impact to climate change. Inslee emphasized that climate change affects local communities directly.
Farinacci’s Criminal History
Court records indicate Farinacci previously faced charges of murder and aggravated assault related to a 2010 incident in Mesa, Arizona, where he fatally shot his father during a dispute over washing dishes. Following this, he shot himself but survived.
In 2012, he pled guilty to reduced charges of manslaughter and aggravated assault. A Maricopa County judge sentenced him to 12 years in prison. Following his release on December 23, 2020, Farinacci now faces new accusations less than six years later.
Arrest and Investigation
The Spokane County Sheriff’s Office reported that Major Crimes detectives and fire investigators identified Farinacci as the suspect. They gathered enough evidence to obtain arrest and search warrants, leading to his detention without incident at his Spokane home.
According to the sheriff’s office, witnesses saw a man behaving suspiciously near the fire’s origin. Observing smoke upon returning home, they reported their observations to the local police, providing a physical description and details of the man’s clothing.
Initial detention of Farinacci involved him carrying waterproof matches and a butane lighter. Investigators assessed the fire’s ignition as consistent with dry grass set alight by such implements.
Further Actions and Upcoming Proceedings
Sheriff John Nowels stated that the first-degree arson charge is based on current evidence but noted that additional charges may arise as the investigation progresses. He commended community members for their vigilance and cooperation, which greatly aided in identifying Farinacci.
Farinacci was scheduled for a court appearance Tuesday before Spokane County Criminal Court Commissioner Tony Hazel. The investigation continues as authorities evaluate the wildfire’s environmental impact.