A Spokane, Washington man has been charged with first-degree arson for allegedly starting the Old Trails Fire, the largest of three wildfires devastating the area.

Aaron F. Farinacci was arrested Monday and booked on suspicion of intentionally setting the blaze, which has destroyed hundreds of buildings.

Farinacci denied the allegations, saying he carried matches and a lighter because he smokes.

The fires have destroyed at least 700 structures and forced around 67,000 people to evacuate, the AP has reported.

Authorities have not yet determined the causes of the other two wildfires, which remained uncontrolled Tuesday.