In a shocking incident early Sunday morning, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro and his family narrowly escaped a fire set in the governor’s mansion in Harrisburg. Authorities report that 38-year-old Cody Balmer has been arrested and is facing serious charges, including attempted murder, terrorism, aggravated arson, and aggravated assault for the attack.
Around 2:00 AM, state troopers assigned to the governor’s security detail were forced to awaken Shapiro and his family, alerting them to the emergency situation. The governor recounted the harrowing experience during a press conference, stating, “Together we secured all of our children, our two dogs, our family that was staying with us, and the troopers safely evacuated us from the governor’s residence.”
The incident reportedly began when Balmer broke into the mansion armed with Molotov cocktails made from Heineken bottles filled with gasoline. After igniting the incendiary devices inside, Balmer fled the scene, but his actions resulted in significant damage to the mansion, particularly in the dining and piano rooms. Photos released from the interior revealed extensive destruction, including charred remnants of a Torah and other items related to a Passover celebration held just hours earlier.
After the incident, Balmer’s ex-girlfriend contacted law enforcement, revealing that he had confessed to her about the attack and expressed a desire to turn himself in. Shortly thereafter, Balmer voluntarily approached a Pennsylvania State Police officer and admitted his involvement in the arson. During police interviews, he disclosed that he harbored animosity toward Governor Shapiro and had intended to harm him and his family.
The Pennsylvania State Police launched an arson investigation, with Lieutenant Colonel George Biv confirming that Balmer had scaled the perimeter fence and evaded initial searches by troopers. Investigators collected evidence, including two gloves discarded in a nearby trash can, which matched those worn by Balmer during the attack and had a strong odor of gasoline.
Governor Shapiro emphasized the seriousness of the attack, stating, “This type of violence is not okay. This kind of violence is becoming far too common in our society.” He called for a collective responsibility to improve societal conditions and pledged to continue his work as governor, affirming, “I will not be deterred in my work, and I will not be afraid to do that work.”
The incident has prompted a thorough review of security protocols at the governor’s residence, as questions arise about how Balmer was able to breach the property and carry out the attack under the watch of state troopers. Authorities are also considering the possibility of federal charges in connection with the case, particularly given the nature of the attack during a religious observance.
Balmer, who has a criminal history that includes convictions for forgery, is currently in custody at the Dauphin County Prison. The district attorney’s office is preparing a criminal complaint against him and is expected to file formal charges shortly, including a probable cause affidavit that will outline the basis for the arrest.
As the investigation continues, the governor’s family is grateful for their safety but remains shaken by the event. Shapiro expressed his concern for his family’s well-being, stating, “I’m not fearful; I’m obviously emotional. I’m worried about my family, and I want my kids to be okay.” The attack has raised broader concerns about political violence and the safety of public officials, especially as the nation grapples with increasing instances of politically motivated aggression.