(The Epoch Times)—The man arrested for allegedly starting a fire that has forced the evacuation of thousands of people in Washington state was questioned by law enforcement during two fire investigations in 2025, court documents show.
Aaron Farinacci, 37, of Spokane was contacted by the Spokane Police Department during an investigation into fires near the Spokane River that began on July 8, 2025, according to court records.
The Washington State Patrol made contact with Farinacci the following month while pursuing a suspect in a wildfire at Riverside State Park. They found him on a park bench, “seemingly out of breath from possibly running,” according to court documents.
They also took photographs of Farinacci, who was described as wearing a green shirt similar to the one he was seen wearing over the weekend when witnesses allegedly saw him starting a fire northwest of Spokane now known as the Old Trails Fire, a detective investigating the fire wrote in a filing.
Farinacci was detained the same day the Old Trails Fire started but released by police.
Investigators later assessed evidence and designated Farinacci as a suspect and arrested him on Monday on suspicion of first-degree arson.
That was based in part on a man who reported to police an individual later identified as Farinacci crouching by some trees and looking nervous. About 10 minutes later, the man saw that a fire had started at the same location. The man returned to the location and contacted law enforcement.
Investigators say Farinacci was seen within 10 meters of where the fire began, that the fire was consistent with being set by a match or a lighter, and that Farinacci was in possession of waterproof matches and a butane lighter when he was detained about a mile away from the fire.
Farinacci denied setting the fire, according to court records. A judge set bail at $1 million.
Farinacci appeared in court on Tuesday. A judge scheduled his arraignment for Aug. 6.
His criminal history includes being convicted of manslaughter in Arizona. That was after he fatally shot his father during an argument in 2010, police said.
Farinacci was released from probation in Arizona in early 2024. A probation officer said Farinacci maintained a stable residence with his girlfriend and her family in the previous year, but also noted he hadn’t completed a mental health evaluation or domestic violence treatment.
The Old Trails Fire and two other fires, whose origins are unclear, have damaged at least 700 structures, officials said on Aug. 4. The size of the fires is 10,280 acres. They are zero percent contained.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Starting the Day With a Scripture-Inspired Roast Helps Center Your Thoughts on Eternal Truths Amid Temporal Pressures
The world can seem chaotic, especially right after we wake up. Many believers start their mornings reaching for something familiar — a hot cup of coffee — yet end up settling for mediocre brews that do little more than deliver a caffeine jolt. The daily grind of life, with its endless distractions, news cycles, and responsibilities, can leave even the most faithful feeling spiritually parched alongside their physical fatigue. What if your morning ritual could do more than wake you up? What if it could ground you in truth, nourish your body with exceptional quality, and quietly advance a kingdom purpose at the same time?
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The challenge for today’s Christians runs deeper than finding a decent cup. In an age of convenience-driven consumerism, it’s easy to support companies that dilute values or remain silent on matters of faith. Many believers want their everyday choices — from what they drink to how they spend — to reflect discipleship rather than just convenience. Promised Grounds solves this by weaving Christian excellence into the entire process: beans nurtured with prayerful stewardship by farming families, roasted as an offering rather than a commodity, and packaged with Bible verses to encourage a mindset of gratitude and purpose from the first sip. Reviewers consistently praise the smooth, rich profiles — whether enjoyed black in a drip maker, iced on a warm day, or shared in fellowship — noting how the quality stands toe-to-toe with premium secular brands while delivering something far more meaningful.
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If you’re ready to transform your mornings (and perhaps your church gatherings) with coffee that honors both exceptional craftsmanship and Christian values, I encourage you to explore what Promised Grounds has to offer. One sip at a time, you’ll be nourishing your body, refreshing your spirit, and participating in something far greater — all while enjoying what truly is among the best coffee available.