Spokane County detectives have revealed that Aaron F. Farinacci, the man accused of igniting a fire this month that resulted in significant destruction, claimed responsibility for starting multiple other fires since last year. Court documents indicate that Farinacci, 37, allegedly planned the recent arson for two weeks prior to its occurrence, which destroyed nearly 700 buildings and led to the evacuation of over 65,000 residents.
Details of the Allegations
Farinacci was apprehended on Monday after a local resident reported suspicious behavior in an area where the Old Trails fire originated. He was initially charged with first-degree arson. Following further investigation, prosecutors announced plans to add four additional arson charges against him, increasing the severity of the case. The initial charge carries a possible penalty of up to life in prison if he is convicted.
Detective Michael Drapeau’s affidavit notes that Farinacci expressed views on fire, referring to it as “powerful” and “beautiful,” suggesting a belief that destruction by fire leads to a form of rebirth. Furthermore, Farinacci allegedly admitted to researching notorious arsonists and gathering materials to devise a method for starting wildfires. Documents reveal that he chose to ignite the fire due to “ideal” conditions, including strong winds and low humidity, as the region was under a red flag warning at the time.
During a court appearance on Thursday, Farinacci’s public defender requested a competency evaluation, which the prosecutor supported. As a result, the judge approved an increase in Farinacci’s bond from $1 million to $2 million. He has not entered a plea, and his attorney has not publicly commented on the case.
Farinacci has a prior criminal history including a 2012 conviction for manslaughter and aggravated assault stemming from the death of his father, an event that also involved an attempt at self-harm. Despite a documented history of mental health issues, he was deemed competent to stand trial and subsequently released on probation in 2020, prior to relocating to Washington state. Since then, he has struggled with personal issues, which he claims worsened following the birth of his son in May 2025.
According to court documents, Farinacci initially started small fires during the summer of 2025, with his first on July 4, using a lighter. In at least two incidents, he reportedly encountered police immediately after starting fires, once stating that he possessed matches for smoking purposes.
Farinacci allegedly devised a plan to respond violently if confronted by law enforcement following his involvement in starting the Old Trails fire, indicating a troubling mindset towards arrest and accountability.
Why It Matters
The case has raised concerns over public safety and the psychological factors that may lead individuals to commit acts of arson. The impact of the fires on the local community is profound, with a significant number of residents forced to evacuate and extensive property damage resulting from these alleged actions.