A man has been arrested on suspicion of arson for allegedly starting one of three fires that are currently burning in the Spokane, Washington area. Aaron Farinacci, 37, was taken into custody by authorities on Monday and faces a charge of first-degree arson.

The arrest comes as the Spokane Complex Fire, encompassing three separate blazes including the Old Trails Fire, has devastated the region. The fires ignited on Saturday afternoon, and by Monday afternoon, had collectively burned over 10,000 acres with zero containment. The infernos have resulted in the destruction of at least 700 structures, including homes and businesses, a scale described by fire incident commander Tom Clemo as "unprecedented."

Officials with the Spokane County Sheriff's Office announced the arrest during a press conference on Monday. The Old Trails Fire was first reported around noon on August 1, near the intersection of N. Old Trails Road and W. Euclid Road. Sheriff John Nowels stated that a witness reported observing a man in the vicinity who appeared "very nervous."

Upon returning to his home, the witness saw smoke emanating from the area where he had seen the man and subsequently contacted law enforcement to report his observations. Authorities located a man, later identified as Farinacci, approximately 1.5 miles from the fire's origin. He was detained and questioned the same day.

During his detainment, Farinacci was found to be in possession of waterproof matches and a butane lighter, according to officials. He is currently being held on a $1 million bond and is scheduled to appear in court on Tuesday. The investigation into the Old Trails Fire, as well as the other two fires in the complex, Autumn Lane and Fairview Fires, remains ongoing.

The fires have prompted a significant response, with wildland firefighters working to contain the blazes. Images from the scene show firefighters performing mop-up operations near residences in the northern part of Spokane.

The widespread destruction has been a significant blow to the community. Governor Bob Ferguson of Washington was also present at a news conference on Monday, addressing the severity of the situation alongside fire officials.

This arrest marks a significant development in the ongoing efforts to understand the cause of the Spokane Complex Fire, which has caused extensive damage and displacement in the region.