A 38-year-old man has been arrested and will face a slew of serious charges, including attempted murder and terrorism, following an early morning fire that severely damaged the Pennsylvania governor’s mansion. The incident forced Governor Josh Shapiro, his family, and guests to evacuate the residence in the early hours of Sunday.
Authorities identified the suspect as Cody Balmer, 38, of Harrisburg. The fire, which occurred at approximately 2 a.m., prompted a rapid response from Pennsylvania State Police and the Harrisburg Bureau of Fire.
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Governor Shapiro, in a statement released on X, described being awakened by state troopers who alerted him to the fire. He, his wife, their four children, two dogs, and another family who had been celebrating Passover with them were safely evacuated.
“Last night at about 2AM, my family and I woke up to bangs on the door from the Pennsylvania State Police after an arsonist set fire to the Governor’s Residence in Harrisburg,” Shapiro wrote. “The Harrisburg Bureau of Fire was on the scene, and while they worked to put out the fire, we were evacuated from the Residence safely by Pennsylvania State Police and assisted by Capitol Police. Thank God no one was injured and the fire was extinguished.”
Pennsylvania State Police Col. Christopher Paris confirmed the arrest during a Sunday afternoon press conference, saying that the investigation is ongoing. Dauphin County District Attorney Francis Chardo announced that Balmer will face charges including attempted murder, terrorism, attempted arson, and aggravated assault.
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“Every day, we stand with the law enforcement and first responders who run towards danger to protect our communities,” Shapiro continued in his statement. “Last night, they did so for our family – and Lori and I are eternally grateful to them for keeping us safe.”
The Pennsylvania State Police released a statement confirming the arson and offering a reward for information. “While the investigation is ongoing, the State Police is prepared to say at this time that this was an act of arson,” the agency said. “There is a reward of up to $10,000 offered through PSP Tips for the arrest and conviction for the individual(s) responsible.”
The incident has raised concerns about security at the governor’s residence. Authorities have not yet released details regarding the suspect’s motive.
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