A Harrisburg man faces charges following a deliberate fire at Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro's official residence during the early hours of April 13.
According to the York Daily Record, Cody Balmer, 38, was arrested for allegedly causing significant damage to the governor's mansion in what authorities describe as a methodically planned arson attack that occurred shortly after the Shapiro family celebrated the start of Passover.
Pennsylvania State Police Commissioner Col. Christopher Paris confirmed that Balmer breached the property's security by jumping a fence before using a homemade device to start the fire. The suspect spent approximately one minute inside the residence before fleeing the scene, leading to his subsequent arrest in the Harrisburg area.
Security breach raises concerns about governor's safety
The incident unfolded around 2 a.m. when firefighters responded to reports of a fire at the North Front Street residence. Governor Shapiro, his wife Lori, and their children were safely evacuated by Pennsylvania State Police and Capitol Police officers after being awakened by urgent knocks on their door.
Law enforcement officials revealed that they had been searching for Balmer prior to the arson attack. The suspect's precise movements and calculated approach have prompted a comprehensive security review to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The investigation now involves multiple agencies, including the FBI, as authorities work to understand the full scope of the attack and its motivations.
Governor Shapiro stands firm against intimidation
Shapiro, who addressed the media during an afternoon press conference, expressed his gratitude to the first responders while emphasizing that the incident would not deter him or his family from practicing their faith.
The governor shared his emotional response:
Last night we experienced an attack, not just on our family, but on the entire Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, here at the governor's residence. No one will deter me or my family or any Pennsylvania from celebrating their faith openly and proudly.
The timing of the attack carried particular significance as it occurred immediately following the Shapiro family's Passover Seder celebration. Despite the incident, the governor maintained his commitment to hosting another Seder the following evening.
Investigation reveals suspect's calculated plan
State investigators highlighted the precision of Balmer's actions, noting his apparent preparation and strategic approach to the attack. The Dauphin County District Attorney's office is preparing formal charges against the suspect.
The fire caused extensive damage to portions of the historic residence, though firefighters successfully contained and extinguished the blaze before it could spread further. Multiple emergency response teams coordinated their efforts during the incident.
Law enforcement officials continue processing evidence from the scene while maintaining an enhanced security presence around the property.
Closing developments in governor's residence attack
A targeted arson attack on Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro's residence has resulted in the arrest of Harrisburg resident Cody Balmer, who allegedly orchestrated the incident following the governor's Passover celebration. The 38-year-old suspect faces serious charges after using a homemade incendiary device to cause significant damage to the historic property. As multiple agencies, including the FBI, continue their investigation, authorities are preparing formal charges against Balmer, whose actions have been characterized as a deliberate attack on both the governor's family and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
