Arrest Made in Alleged Arson Attack on Pennsylvania Governor's Residence

Authorities arrested 38-year-old Cody Balmer after an alleged arson attack on Governor Josh Shapiro's residence. The governor and his family evacuated safely, but the house sustained severe damage. Balmer faces multiple serious charges as the investigation continues.

A 38-year-old man has been taken into custody and is set to face charges in connection with a suspected arson attack on the official residence of Pennsylvania's Governor Josh Shapiro, officials reported. The suspect, identified as Cody Balmer, is being charged with attempted murder, terrorism, aggravated arson, and aggravated assault following the incident that occurred in the early hours of the morning.

Governor Shapiro, a prominent Democratic figure and potential future presidential candidate, recounted the harrowing experience at a news conference, admitting he was "obviously emotional" following the events. Despite the chaos, Shapiro and his family were able to evacuate without harm; however, their home in Harrisburg, the state capital, faced extensive damage from the fire that had engulfed part of the residence.

The attack came shortly after Shapiro's family had gathered to celebrate the first night of Passover, a Jewish festival observing freedom from oppression. "When we were in the state dining room last night, we told the story of Passover," Shapiro explained, emphasizing the contrast between their joyous celebration and the violent act that soon followed. The motives behind Balmer’s alleged actions remain unclear, according to authorities.

Police Deputy Commissioner George Bivens mentioned that Balmer was found with a homemade incendiary device when he was arrested in the vicinity of Harrisburg. Investigators believe the suspect managed to infiltrate the premises by scaling a surrounding fence before igniting the fire, which is still under investigation.

The interior of the governor's home suffered "a significant amount of damage" from the blaze, which crews worked diligently to extinguish while ensuring the safety of the Shapiro family. Previously, a reward of $10,000 was offered for any information leading to an arrest; it is still unknown if this contributed to Balmer's capture, as he remains in custody.

Shapiro has been the governor of Pennsylvania since January 2023, previously serving as the state’s attorney general. The governor's residence, constructed in 1968, is a grand 29,000-square-foot Georgian-style estate that has housed eight governors to date.