Authorities in Spokane, Washington, charged Aaron Farinacci with deliberately starting the Old Trails fire—a blaze that, alongside two others, has ravaged over 850 buildings. Spokane County Detective Michael Drapeau highlighted that Farinacci had researched favorable weather conditions to optimize the spread of fire. This careful planning resulted in widespread destruction.
Farinacci, 37, reportedly described fire as something ‘powerful’ and ‘beautiful’ to Detective Drapeau. Despite initially denying involvement, he later confessed to igniting the Old Trails fire and several others occurring last year and last month. As a result, four additional arson charges have been levied against him.
According to court documents, Farinacci acknowledged always carrying cigarettes or marijuana, which he used to justify carrying a lighter and matches. He viewed arson as an easily escapable crime when sufficient time was allowed.
Farinacci meticulously studied a notorious serial arsonist’s methods and created a ‘time delay device’ with notebook paper, matches, a cigarette, and a rubber band to spark the wildfire. He strategically chose August 1st to start the fire, anticipating strong winds of up to 50 mph to aid in the rapid spread. Although Farinacci admitted knowing the potential for severe damage, he claimed he did not intend for it to escalate to such an extent.
The criminal act has displaced tens of thousands of residents, preventing many from returning home. Luckily, no fatalities or severe injuries have been reported. Farinacci faces five first-degree arson charges, while his lawyer seeks a competency evaluation before proceeding with a plea.
Paul Child, an observant local, tipped off law enforcement after witnessing Farinacci’s suspicious behavior. Child noticed Farinacci near some railroad tracks, acting nervously in the brush and suspiciously examining nearby trees.
Additionally, Farinacci is accused of involvement in fires dating back to summer 2025. Many occurred near his residence at the Copper River Apartments. Among these are the Aubrey White fire, Meenach fire, Fort George fire, and Indian Bluff fire. Each fire posed significant danger, prompting evacuations and road closures.
In his past, Farinacci was convicted of manslaughter and aggravated assault after the death of his father in Mesa, Arizona, in 2010. He served approximately ten years in prison before relocating to Spokane in 2022. His son was born in 2025, coinciding with a period of personal turmoil marked by increased marijuana use and difficulty managing life’s challenges, according to Drapeau.