Man Arrested for Allegedly Setting Fire to Pennsylvania Governor’s Mansion: What We Know So Far

Pennsylvania State Police have charged a Harrisburg man who allegedly broke into Gov. Josh Shapiro’s residence early Sunday and started a fire while Shapiro and his family were asleep inside.

Gov. Shapiro, his wife Lori, their four children, two dogs, and another family staying with them were forced to evacuate the home, which sustained significant damage. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.

Suspect Faces Multiple Charges, Including Attempted Murder and Terrorism

The suspect, 38-year-old Cody Balmer, turned himself in to police and has since been charged with attempted murder, aggravated arson, terrorism, and other related offenses. The fire occurred just hours after the Shapiros hosted a Passover dinner.

According to an affidavit, Balmer expressed anger toward the governor and stated that he would have attacked him with a hammer if given the opportunity.

Shapiro’s Political Profile

Gov. Josh Shapiro, 51, was elected Pennsylvania governor in 2022 following six years as the state’s attorney general. A well-known Democrat, he was considered a potential running mate for former Vice President Kamala Harris during her 2024 presidential bid and is seen as a possible contender for the 2028 presidential race.

Family Woken by Trooper as Flames Spread

Around 2 a.m. on Sunday, Shapiro and his family were awakened by loud pounding on the door. A state trooper alerted them to the fire, prompting an immediate evacuation.

According to audio obtained by CNN from Dauphin County Fire and EMS, a caller reported “a large fire on the first floor” and could “see fire out the windows.”

How the Fire Was Set

Balmer allegedly climbed over the fence surrounding the governor’s residence, smashed two windows with a hammer, and entered the home. Inside, he used homemade incendiary devices to ignite the fire.

He spent less than a minute inside before fleeing. Lt. Col. George Bivens of the Pennsylvania State Police described Balmer’s actions as “very methodical” and noted he actively avoided law enforcement at the scene.

After starting the fire, Balmer kicked down the dining room door and escaped. The Harrisburg Bureau of Fire arrived around 2 a.m. and managed to extinguish the flames. All occupants were safely evacuated.

A security review is underway to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Balmer Admitted Making Explosives With Gasoline and Beer Bottles

After fleeing, Balmer’s ex-partner contacted police, saying Balmer confessed to starting the fire. He later turned himself in.

During questioning, Balmer said he used gasoline siphoned from a lawn mower and poured it into beer bottles to create Molotov cocktails, which he threw into the home.

He admitted to harboring hatred toward Shapiro and said he would have attacked him with a hammer had they encountered each other. Balmer acknowledged knowing the governor and his family might be inside during the attack.

Previous Charges and Possible Federal Prosecution

Balmer is also facing a plea hearing in a separate 2023 case related to a simple assault charge. In 2016, he pleaded guilty to forgery and theft by deception.

According to officials, Balmer may also face federal charges. The FBI’s Philadelphia field office is assisting in the investigation.

Fire Severely Damaged Historic Residence

The fire caused extensive damage to the Pennsylvania governor’s residence, located in Harrisburg. Photos reveal scorched walls and ceilings, ash-covered floors, and destroyed furniture. Items from the family’s Passover dinner, including a “Passover Crafts” sign, were visible among the debris.

The 29,000-square-foot Georgian-style mansion, completed in 1968, sits on the Susquehanna River and has housed eight governors and their families. The first floor includes both permanent and rotating art exhibits.

Shapiro Responds: ‘We Will Not Be Deterred’

In a heartfelt press conference, Gov. Shapiro called the fire an attack not just on his family, but on all Pennsylvanians.

He expressed deep gratitude for the outpouring of support from the public and fellow politicians. Vice President JD Vance called the incident “really disgusting violence,” while Sen. John Fetterman described it as “truly appalling.”

Condemning Political Violence

Shapiro condemned violence in politics, citing other recent threats and attacks on elected officials. “This type of violence is not OK,” he said. “We have to be better than this.”

Despite the trauma, he emphasized that the attack would not stop him from fulfilling his duties. “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.”

Pride in Jewish Faith

Shapiro also highlighted his Jewish identity and resilience in the face of hate. “If he was trying to terrorize our family, our friends, the Jewish community… hear me on this: we celebrated our faith last night, proudly, and in a few hours, we will celebrate our second Seder of Passover.”

“No one will deter me or my family, or any Pennsylvanian from celebrating their faith openly and proudly,” he declared.