Alert Neighbor Helps Stop Wildfire Arsonist in Spokane

Paul Child's instincts told him something wasn't right when he drove past the same stranger twice near his Spokane-area home. When the man crouched nervously in the bushes, then smoke appeared 10 minutes later, Child knew exactly what to do.

The grandfather immediately contacted police and provided a detailed description of the suspicious man. Within hours, officers had detained a suspect and brought Child and two teenage witnesses to identify him in a field showup.

"We pulled off to the side of the road, and they got an individual out from the back of the deputy car," Child told reporters. All three witnesses gave a positive identification on the spot.

That quick action helped authorities arrest Aaron Farinacci, who now faces multiple arson charges. Police found him carrying matches, cigarettes, and a lighter in a fanny pack, according to bodycam footage obtained after the arrest.

Child didn't just spot the suspect. He trusted his gut when something felt off, acted quickly, and helped protect his community from potential additional fires.

The Ripple Effect

Child's vigilance represents something bigger than one arrest. His willingness to pay attention and speak up shows how everyday citizens can become the first line of defense in protecting their neighborhoods.

The Old Trails Fire and two other blazes ultimately burned over 10,000 acres across Spokane and Stevens counties. While the damage was significant, Child's rapid response may have prevented the suspect from setting additional fires that day.

Community awareness programs have long emphasized that alert neighbors often spot dangers before authorities can respond. Child's story proves that a moment of attention and the courage to report suspicious activity can make a real difference.

First responders praised witnesses like Child for their detailed observations and willingness to participate in the identification process. That kind of community cooperation helps law enforcement work faster and more effectively when every minute counts.

Paul Child wasn't looking to be a hero that August day, but his sharp eye and quick action helped protect countless neighbors from potential harm.