Wildfires around Spokane, Washington, have destroyed roughly 850 buildings and forced about 67,000 people to evacuate, leaving communities across the region confronting widespread destruction as investigators pursue an arson case connected to the largest of the fires.
Firefighters have made progress against the Old Trails, Autumn Lane and Fairview fires after cooler temperatures and lighter winds provided more favorable conditions. Together, the three major fires have burned more than 10,000 acres. Officials remain cautious, however, as hotter, drier and windier weather is expected to return and could make containment efforts more difficult.
Authorities have charged 37-year-old Aaron Farinacci with first-degree arson in connection with the Old Trails Fire. Investigators say a witness reported seeing Farinacci acting suspiciously near the area where the fire began, and authorities later determined that the location corresponded with the fire’s point of origin. Deputies said Farinacci had waterproof matches and a butane lighter when they contacted him. He has denied starting the fire.
The investigation has also drawn attention to Farinacci’s previous encounters with authorities. He was questioned in connection with two Spokane-area fires in 2025 but was not charged in either case. He is being held on $1 million bail in the current case.
Authorities have not accused Farinacci of starting the other major fires now burning around Spokane. Officials have said the Autumn Lane and Fairview fires were also caused by human activity, but investigators have not yet determined exactly how those fires began.
The fires have become one of Washington state’s most destructive wildfire emergencies in recent years, with hundreds of homes and other structures lost and thousands of residents displaced. Crews are continuing to strengthen containment lines as officials monitor changing weather conditions that could once again increase fire activity.
