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NewsWSVN 7 News MiamiAugust 4, 2026Miami-Dade

Spokane County Sheriff arrests man for arson in connection with Old Trails Fire

Authorities have arrested 37-year-old Aaron F. Farinacci and charged him with first-degree arson for allegedly starting the Old Trails Fire, the largest of three active wildfires in the Spokane region. The fires have destroyed at least 700 buildings and forced the evacuation of approximately 67,000 residents.

wildfirearsonpublic safetyemergency responsehousing
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Why It Matters

The ongoing wildfires have caused significant property loss and displacement for thousands of Spokane residents, with emergency services currently stretched to capacity.

Key Facts

  • Aaron F. Farinacci was arrested and booked on suspicion of first-degree arson regarding the Old Trails Fire.
  • The suspect's bond is set at $1 million.
  • The three wildfires have destroyed at least 700 buildings.
  • Approximately 67,000 people have been forced to evacuate the area.
  • The Old Trails Fire has burned approximately 16 square miles.
  • There are 14 outstanding reports of missing persons, down from an initial 300.
  • More than 1,000 firefighters are currently working to contain the blazes.
  • The state's congressional delegation has requested an expedited emergency declaration from the President.
  • Authorities have warned the public not to fly drones near fire zones to avoid delaying aerial operations.
  • The suspect has a prior felony manslaughter conviction in Arizona.

Who's Mentioned

other390“Square miles burned across Washington state.”organizationSpokane County Sheriff’s Office“Law enforcement agency handling the investigation.”other67,000“Number of people forced to evacuate.”personJohn Nowels“Spokane County Sheriff.”personAaron F. Farinacci“Suspect arrested for first-degree arson.”other700“Number of buildings destroyed.”other1,000“Number of firefighters deployed.”personPreston McCollam“Spokane County Prosecutor.”personDonald Trump“President of the United States.”