politics
Accused arsonist studied how to maximize Washington wildfire’s harm, police say
Court documents allege Aaron Farinacci, who faces slew of arson charges, set 25 fires in Spokane area over past year
TL;DR
- Aaron Farinacci is accused of starting the Old Trails fire in Washington, which is still burning.
- He allegedly studied how to maximize fire destruction and is linked to 25 other fires in the Spokane area.
- Farinacci allegedly lit a homemade ignition device during a "red flag warning," anticipating the fire would spread.
- He told investigators fire was "powerful" and "beautiful" and researched the arsonist John Leonard Orr.
- Farinacci has a prior conviction for manslaughter and aggravated assault.
- The "Spokane complex" fires have displaced thousands and caused severe air quality issues.
- Wildfires in Washington have burned over 672 sq miles, with 16 uncontained fires.
- Officials anticipate hotter, drier, and breezier conditions ahead, despite some recent containment progress.