Man charged with setting devastating Spokane fire to be evaluated for competency to stand trial - Oregon Public Broadcasting - OPB
Aaron Farinacci, the suspect accused of starting the destructive Old Trails Fire in Spokane, is set to undergo a competency evaluation to determine if he is fit to stand trial. Farinacci faces five counts of first-degree arson and has allegedly admitted to starting dozens of other fires since 2025.
Why it matters
The case involves significant public safety concerns and property damage, highlighting the legal process for defendants with potential mental health issues in high-profile criminal cases.
By Casey Frizzell ( OPB ) , Adia White ( OPB ) and Paige Browning ( KUOW ) SPOKANE, Wash. Aug. 6, 2026 4:14 p.m. Updated: Aug. 7, 2026 4:46 p.m. The suspected Spokane arsonist told investigators he’d set dozens of other fires. He will be evaluated for his competency to stand trial. Arson suspect Aaron Farinacci waits for his initial court appearance by video at the county courthouse in Spokane, Wash., Tuesday, Aug. 4, 2026.
The man accused of setting one of the most destructive fires in Washington state is now facing five counts of first-degree arson. Aaron F. Farinacci, 37, appeared in court for his arraignment Thursday after he was charged in connection with the Old Trails Fire. That fire, along with two others that sparked on Saturday, Aug. 1, have burned more than 800 buildings in Spokane County.
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