Washington Wildfire Arson Suspect Previously Convicted of Manslaughter

The individual accused of igniting the largest wildfire in eastern Washington, which has resulted in widespread destruction and evacuations, has a prior conviction of manslaughter. This information has surfaced through court records.

Aaron F. Farinacci, 37, is currently under suspicion for first-degree arson linked to the Old Trails Fire, one of several fires near Spokane. This fire has resulted in the destruction of over 700 buildings and has forced roughly 67,000 residents to flee their homes.

The authorities are not suggesting any link between Farinacci and the other fires, which remain under investigation.

Former Washington Governor Jay Inslee addressed the wildfires, attributing them to climate change, while firefighters continued battling the blazes.

In 2010, Farinacci faced charges of first-degree murder and aggravated assault for a homicide in Arizona. In 2012, he pleaded guilty to manslaughter, receiving a 12-year prison sentence. The Associated Press reported that Farinacci shot his father during an argument in Mesa, Arizona, also injuring himself.

He was released from prison on December 23, 2020. Now, less than six years later, Farinacci is once again entangled in criminal allegations.

Investigators from the Spokane County Sheriff’s Office and the Washington State Department of Natural Resources identified Farinacci as the suspect through probable cause. He was arrested at his residence without incident.

Witnesses saw a suspicious man near the fire’s origin. After spotting smoke, they alerted law enforcement, describing the individual’s appearance and clothing.

Initially, Farinacci was detained and questioned but then released, as authorities prioritized evacuating residents in danger. Evidence and witness statements ultimately led to his arrest.

Investigators noted finding waterproof matches and a butane lighter on Farinacci, concluding the fire began with dry grass ignited by such items.

While the first-degree arson charge is based on current evidence, further charges may arise as the investigation progresses and the fire’s impact is fully assessed.

Sheriff John Nowels commended the community’s role in swiftly identifying Farinacci, emphasizing the importance of citizen vigilance.

Farinacci is set to appear in court before Spokane County Criminal Court Commissioner Tony Hazel.