Man Charged with Arson in Washington’s Old Trails Fire, Hundreds of Buildings Destroyed
A man identified as Aaron Farinacci has been charged with arson in Washington state for allegedly starting the Old Trails Fire, which destroyed hundreds of buildings. Police state that Farinacci researched weather conditions and researched a known serial arsonist for…
Denver, CO, August 6, 2026 —
Aaron Farinacci has been charged with arson in connection with the Old Trails Fire in Washington state, a blaze that officials say led to the destruction of hundreds of buildings. The incident occurred in the Spokane area, prompting widespread evacuations for tens of thousands of residents.
According to police, Farinacci allegedly researched weather conditions and studied the background of a known serial arsonist for several weeks leading up to the Old Trails Fire. In addition to the Old Trails Fire, Farinacci also faces charges related to two other fires: the Aubrey White Fire and the Meenach Fire. The full extent of damage and the specific timeline for these additional fires were not immediately available.
The Old Trails Fire resulted in significant property loss, with hundreds of structures confirmed destroyed. The evacuations implemented in the Spokane area were a direct response to the rapid spread of the wildfire and the immediate threat it posed to communities. Further details regarding the investigation, including the specific dates of the fires and the permit status for any activities, were not provided.
Authorities have not released information regarding the motive behind the alleged arsons or the total financial impact of the destruction. The contractor’s name involved in any cleanup or rebuilding efforts was also not provided. Investigations into the fires are ongoing.
Story summarized from the original created by AP via Scripps News Group on www.denver7.com, see more information here.
