In a shocking incident that has raised alarms about political violence, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro and his family were forced to evacuate their official residence early Sunday morning after a man allegedly set fire to the historic mansion. The suspect, 38-year-old Cody Balmer, was arrested following a brief manhunt and now faces multiple serious charges including attempted murder and terrorism.
The fire broke out around 2 a.m. at the Governor’s Residence, a sprawling 29,000-square-foot mansion located along the Susquehanna River in Harrisburg. According to reports, Balmer scaled a seven-foot fence surrounding the property, broke a window with a hammer, and threw Molotov cocktails inside the home, igniting a substantial blaze.
Fortunately, Governor Shapiro, his wife Lori, their four children, and guests were alerted by state troopers who were part of the governor's security detail. They managed to evacuate safely, and no injuries were reported. However, the fire caused significant damage, particularly in the southern wing of the mansion where the Shapiro family had hosted a Passover Seder dinner just hours earlier.
In a statement following the incident, Governor Shapiro expressed his gratitude to first responders and condemned the attack as a disturbing reflection of rising political violence in the United States. He emphasized that such acts are unacceptable, stating, "This kind of violence is not OK... It has to stop." Shapiro, a Democrat who has been mentioned as a potential candidate for the 2028 presidential race, noted the attack was not just on his family but on the entire Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
Balmer, who reportedly harbored anger towards the governor, turned himself in later that day after a woman claiming to be his ex-partner contacted police to say he had confessed to starting the fire. According to the affidavit from state police, Balmer admitted to making explosives with gasoline and beer bottles, which he then threw into the governor's residence. He stated that if confronted by Shapiro, he would have beaten him with a hammer.
Authorities have not disclosed a clear motive for Balmer's actions, but they are investigating the possibility of political or antisemitic motivations. Governor Shapiro, who is Jewish, had shared Passover well-wishes online just hours before the attack. During a press conference, he condemned the violence and highlighted the need for a societal shift away from such extremism.
"We must do better than this," Shapiro asserted, urging for a collective effort to combat political violence. His remarks resonate amidst a growing trend of threats against elected officials, including previous incidents involving plots against governors and even assassination attempts on former President Donald Trump.
Balmer's criminal history includes various charges over the last decade, including theft and assault. He had previously pleaded guilty to forgery and theft in 2015 and 2016. Following his arrest for the arson, he was held without bond at Dauphin County Prison and is awaiting a preliminary hearing. Prosecutors have indicated that federal charges could also be forthcoming.
The Pennsylvania governor's residence, built in 1968, has housed eight governors and their families. It serves not only as a home but also as a venue for official state functions and events. The significant damage inflicted by the fire has prompted a review of security measures at the residence to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Political leaders from both sides of the aisle have condemned the attack. Vice President JD Vance described it as "really disgusting violence," while Pennsylvania Senator John Fetterman called it "truly appalling." These responses underscore the bipartisan concern regarding the rising tide of violence directed at public figures.
As the investigation continues, the FBI is assisting state and local authorities in uncovering the full extent of Balmer's actions and intentions. The security of elected officials and their families remains a pressing issue in today's political climate, which is increasingly fraught with hostility and division.
In a poignant closing to his press conference, Governor Shapiro reflected on the importance of community and resilience. He stated, "If this individual was trying to deter me from doing my job as your governor, rest assured, I will find a way to work even harder than I was. No one will deter me or my family, or any Pennsylvanian from celebrating their faith openly and proudly." The Shapiro family plans to continue their observance of Passover, demonstrating their commitment to resilience in the face of adversity.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by public officials today and the urgent need for a collective stand against violence in all its forms.
