Man arrested on suspicion of arson in Spokane

Authorities investigate the fire that destroyed more than 700 structures and forced the evacuation of tens of thousands of residents

On August 4, 2026, Spokane police arrested Aaron Farinacci, 37, on suspicion of igniting the largest fire the city has ever experienced. The blaze forced the evacuation of more than 60,000 residents and destroyed hundreds of structures.

Arrest on suspicion of arson

According to the Spokane County sheriff, Farinacci was seen kneeling near grassy areas at the fire site and was later found in possession of matches and a lighter. He was detained in connection with the blaze known as Old Trails and is charged with first-degree arson, with bail set at $1 million.

Destruction and family losses

More than 700 buildings, including homes and businesses, were consumed by the flames, while thousands of acres of land burned on the outskirts of Spokane, a city of about 230,000 people. Victims such as Ken Anderson, who returned to the site to see his house, described the experience as nightmarish. Jane Biernat, six months pregnant, lost everything she owned, including the baby’s belongings, and faces the task of rebuilding without renter’s insurance.

Firefighters' effort and weather forecast

Firefighters have already made progress in containing two of the three hotspots — Fairview and Autumn Lane — while light wind and lower temperatures were forecast for Tuesday. However, authorities warn that temperatures could rise again later in the week, increasing the risk of new flames.

Authorities' reaction and expectations

Governor Bob Ferguson described the situation as “a nightmare” and called the event the worst natural disaster in Spokane’s history. Mayor Lisa Brown warned that there remains a risk of further loss of life and that it is still too early to determine when evacuees will be able to return to their homes.

Communication challenges and missing persons

Fourteen people have not yet been reached by phone; Sheriff John Nowels suggested that many may have been evacuated but lost signal or battery power. So far, none of the individuals have been classified as missing.

With information from BBC News.