Full Breakdown
Spokane Wildfire Arson Suspect Confesses to Planning Old Trails Fire
8/7/2026, 7:40:10 AM
Planned Ignition of the Old Trails Fire
Spokane County detectives say 37-year-old Aaron Farinacci prepared a “time-delay device” with notebook paper, matches, a cigarette and a rubber band. After weeks of checking a weather app for high winds, he chose a Saturday when gusts were forecast at 50 mph. He left his home, ignited the device near brush, and told investigators the blaze would be “bad” but not intended to grow as large as it did. The Old Trails Fire merged with two other blazes, creating the largest wildfire complex to hit Spokane in recent history.
Background & Context
The Old Trails Fire was one of three simultaneous fires that erupted on the weekend, each later linked to human activity. Farinacci is also charged in connection with two smaller fires that burned in summer 2025. He previously served about a decade in prison after a 2010 killing of his father in Mesa, Arizona, for which he pleaded guilty to manslaughter and aggravated assault. Police say he began setting fires in July 2025, eventually claiming responsibility for 25 incidents near his apartment building. Investigators had contacted him during two fire investigations the previous year, though no charges were filed at that time.
Data & Statistics
- Structures impacted: Sources report at least 913 structures damaged or destroyed across all three fires, with 694 attributed to the Old Trails Fire.
- Evacuations: Roughly 60,000-67,000 residents were forced to leave their homes, about a quarter of Spokane’s population.
- Area burned: The three fires together have scorched over 672 sq mi (1,740 sq km) across Washington state.
- Casualties: No deaths or injuries have been confirmed; authorities are attempting to contact 14 individuals who have not responded to outreach.
Official Statements & Responses
Spokane County Sheriff John Nowels told a news conference that evacuation zones will remain in place for many days because of ongoing fire-danger weather, emphasizing that premature re-entry could endanger residents. The Spokane Superior Court set Farinacci’s bond at $2 million, citing risks to community safety and flight.
Criticism & Opposition
Local residents expressed shock and a desire for accountability. Matt Kincanon, whose home was lost, said he hopes any eventual punishment “will fit the crime,” reflecting community calls for a sentence commensurate with the damage.
Verbatim Quotes
- “He was bent over in the brush, acting nervous,” — Paul Child
- “No longer than 10 minutes after I got home, my daughter says, 'There's a fire,'” — Paul Child
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
- Structure counts: Sources differ on the number of buildings destroyed in the Old Trails Fire (694 vs. “more than 700”).
- Missing persons: Authorities have been unable to reach 14 individuals by mobile phone, but these people are not yet classified as missing.
- Cause of other fires: While the Old Trails Fire is confirmed as arson, the origins of the Autumn Lane and Fairview fires remain under investigation.
What’s Next
A mental-competency evaluation has been ordered before Farinacci can enter a plea. The Spokane Superior Court judge will review the request and schedule a subsequent hearing. Farinacci remains in custody pending further court proceedings.
