Spokane County wildfires update: Old Trails Fire evacuation, containment details as Aaron Farinacci faces arson charges
Aaron Farinacci faces five arson charges as firefighters work to contain three major Spokane-area wildfires.
Spokane County is battling three major wildfires, with the Old Trails Fire being the most destructive, having destroyed hundreds of structures on August 1. The fire suspect, Aaron Farinacci, a 37-year-old Spokane resident, now faces five first-degree arson charges. Farinacci had reportedly admitted to starting around 25 fires since July 2025, although detectives have confirmed four.
He did not provide a plea at his arraignment, and a judge set his bond at $2 million. The Old Trails Fire has consumed about 3,561 acres and is currently 43% contained, while the Autumn Lane Fire has affected 5,783 acres and is 47% contained, and the Fairview Fire has burned 992 acres and is 31% contained. Over 900 structures have suffered damage or destruction, primarily due to the Old Trails Fire.
More than 900 firefighters are currently working to contain the blazes. Spokane County Sheriff John Nowels acknowledged that residents played a crucial role in identifying Farinacci, contributing to his relatively swift apprehension. Farinacci's next hearing is set for September 4.
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