Police say a suspect in the Spokane wildfire arson case waited for a dry, windy day before starting the blaze. The allegation is described in connection with the Old Trails Fire, which has prompted an investigation into whether the fire was deliberately set.
Court records cited by news outlets say the suspect admitted to setting the Old Trails Fire and 25 other fires since last summer. The suspect has been charged with arson, and police reportedly told investigators that the wildfire had been planned for weeks. The allegations have not been adjudicated in court.
The fire has led to evacuations and ongoing emergency response efforts in the Spokane area. Officials have continued to provide updates on the fire’s containment, evacuation orders and changing conditions, including maps showing affected areas.
Authorities have warned that some evacuations could remain in place for weeks, depending on the fire’s behavior and the progress of firefighting operations. Investigators and emergency crews are continuing to assess the cause, spread and impact of the blaze.
Related Coverage
- Court records: Arson suspect admits to setting Old Trails Fire, 25 other fires since last summer
- Man charged with arson in Spokane, Washington, told police he planned wildfire for weeks
- "It's going to be weeks," Sheriff gives update on how long evacuations are expected to stay in place
- LIVE: Spokane fire update, containment status, evacuations and latest maps