Washington man arrested as massive Spokane wildfire forces 65,000 evacuations

A 37-year-old Spokane, Washington, resident has been arrested in connection with the largest of three wildfires burning in the region after authorities said the blaze was intentionally set.

Officials identified the suspect as a man with a previous conviction for manslaughter. The investigation into the fire remains ongoing.

The wildfires have forced more than 65,000 people to evacuate, destroyed hundreds of structures and prompted a massive firefighting response.

Videos from the scene show an Erickson Aero Tanker MD-87 air tanker dropping fire retardant over the fast-moving flames as crews work to slow the wildfire’s advance and protect nearby communities.