Judge to Rule on Arson Case Friday in Spokane

A Spokane judge will hold a hearing to evaluate a defendant's competency to stand trial for the Old Trails Fire.

Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Crime — General

Abstract bold flat-color editorial illustration of a jagged cliff edge, evoking the tension of legal proceedings following the Spokane fire. — A Spokane judge will determine on Friday if Aaron Farinacci, charged with arson for the Old Trails Fire, is competent to stand trial. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Aaron Farinacci faces five counts of first-degree arson for the August 1 Old Trails Fire that destroyed hundreds of Spokane homes. A court hearing on October 31, 2026, will determine if the criminal case proceeds or requires further mental health review.

Why it matters

The hearing is critical to determine if Farinacci can understand the charges and assist in his own defense after a prior mental health evaluation confirmed he has major depressive disorder.

Aaron Farinacci is facing five charges of first-degree arson related to the destruction of hundreds of homes. He previously served a 10-year prison sentence for a 2010 manslaughter conviction in Arizona.

The players

Aaron Farinacci

He is the defendant facing five counts of first-degree arson for the Old Trails Fire and a previous 10-year sentence for manslaughter.

The details

The Old Trails Fire expanded rapidly during high winds and jumped the Spokane River, leading to widespread property damage. A judge has ordered a second mental health evaluation to clarify the defendant's legal standing before the proceedings move forward.

The manslaughter conviction occurred in 2010.
The Old Trails Fire began on August 1.
The scheduled court hearing takes place October 31, 2026, at 9 am.

Legal Context

The judicial proceedings follow a pattern set by the legal response to the Old Trails Fire. Local courts frequently utilize competency hearings when defendants demonstrate significant mental health challenges that may impact their ability to stand trial.

The legal determination will impact the local community by clarifying whether the criminal case for the significant fire damage will proceed through the court system. Residents affected by the loss of their homes are watching the status of the defendant as the judicial process unfolds.

The takeaway

Understanding the competency of a defendant is a fundamental step in the American judicial process for ensuring fair trials. Legal outcomes in cases involving significant property destruction often take time as the court balances public accountability with the defendant's mental health.