Pennsylvania Governor’s Mansion Set Ablaze in Suspected Arson Attack; Suspect Faces Terrorism and Attempted Murder Charges
- Victor Nwoko
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
A man broke into the Pennsylvania governor’s residence early Sunday morning, setting a fire that caused significant damage and forced Governor Josh Shapiro, his family, and guests to evacuate. Authorities confirmed the suspect, 38-year-old Cody Balmer of Harrisburg, is in custody and faces charges including attempted murder, terrorism, aggravated arson, and aggravated assault.
The incident occurred after Balmer scaled a nearly seven-foot-high iron security fence around the governor’s mansion in the early hours of the morning. After breaching the perimeter, he evaded detection, entered the residence, and ignited a fire with a homemade incendiary device. He remained inside the building for approximately one minute before fleeing the scene. Authorities later apprehended him in the area.
Governor Shapiro, his wife, their four children, two dogs, and another family had gathered at the mansion to observe the Jewish holiday of Passover. At around 2 a.m., state troopers alerted the occupants and evacuated them safely. No injuries were reported. The fire was extinguished by the Harrisburg Bureau of Fire.
The blaze was set in the same room where the families had held a Passover Seder on Saturday night. That section of the residence, frequently used for receptions and art exhibits, was left badly damaged. Large windows were shattered or missing, and charring was visible on the building’s exterior and interior. Through broken windows, scorched furniture and walls were visible, including a blackened piano and buffet tables.
Governor Shapiro addressed the public Sunday evening in front of the damaged south wing, stating that if the act was intended to intimidate or silence him, it would only strengthen his resolve. He emphasized the importance of resisting intimidation, especially during a time when he had just shared the story of Jewish liberation during Passover.
Shapiro added that the rise in politically motivated violence must be addressed, regardless of its source or target. “We have to be better than this,” he said.
Authorities have not disclosed a specific motive for the attack but noted signs of premeditation. Lt. Col. George Bivens stated that Balmer had come prepared with an incendiary device and had planned the breach. The investigation remains ongoing, with assistance from federal agencies including the Department of Justice, the FBI, and the U.S. attorney’s office.
At the crime scene, investigators recovered part of the security fence that had been cut away and removed in black plastic for further examination. Yellow tape cordoned off the area, and detection dogs searched the property.
Governor Shapiro, who divides his time between the Harrisburg mansion and his home in Abington, had posted a photo of the Passover Seder earlier that evening. Messages of support poured in from current and former officials, including expressions of relief for the family’s safety and condemnation of the attack.
Vice President JD Vance called the incident “really disgusting violence,” while former Pennsylvania governors Mark Schweiker and Tom Ridge denounced the act as cowardly and heartbreaking. Ridge, who once lived in the mansion with his own family, emphasized the need for accountability.
Despite the extensive damage, Governor Shapiro remained resolute, vowing to continue his work and maintain his faith in the face of adversity.
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