Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Arson Suspect Arrested as Washington Wildfires Prompt Aid, Power Shutoffs

8/6/2026

28 7 Full Breakdown

Summary

Sheriff Arrests Arsonist

Spokane Sheriff’s Office arrested Aaron Farinacci, 37, on arson suspicion for the Old Trails Fire and held him on a $1 million bond.
Three Spokane fires that started Aug. 1, 2026, burned 10,000 acres and displaced 65,000 people.
Gov. Bob Ferguson and President Donald Trump approved emergency aid and a disaster declaration for Washington wildfire victims.

Summary

VFW Mobilizes Relief

More than 8,000 people lost electricity across Washington, primarily in Spokane County, on Monday.
Avista Corp’s shares fell up to 4.6% on Monday as investors reacted to the utility’s preemptive power shutoffs aimed at reducing wildfire risk.
The Veterans of Foreign Wars of Washington mobilized 90 posts and roughly 20,000 members to provide 24-hour shelter, food and smoke-relief for evacuees.

History

Historical Context

The 1988 Yellowstone fires, which scorched 36 percent of the park and required about 9,600 firefighters, prompted the National Park Service to adopt a new fire-management plan in 1992. That plan underlies today’s coordinated utility shutdowns, such as Avista Corp’s power cut during the August 1 2026 Old Trails Fire in Spokane, and related disaster-relief actions.

1 of 3

Sheriff Arrests Arsonist

Spokane Sheriff’s Office arrested Aaron Farinacci, 37, on arson suspicion for the Old Trails Fire and held him on a $1 million bond.
Three Spokane fires that started Aug. 1, 2026, burned 10,000 acres and displaced 65,000 people.
Gov. Bob Ferguson and President Donald Trump approved emergency aid and a disaster declaration for Washington wildfire victims.

1 / 3