Governor’s mansion fire attack: Authorities have charged Cody Balmer, 38, of Harrisburg, with attempted murder, aggravated arson, burglary, terrorism, and related offenses after he allegedly broke into Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro’s home and set fire to a section of the residence. The incident occurred around 2 a.m. on April 13, just hours after Shapiro hosted a Passover dinner.
The Attack
According to prosecutors, video footage shows the suspect surveilling the residence before scaling a fence and approaching the piano room on the south side of the governor’s home. He smashed a window with a hammer and threw a Molotov cocktail into the room, sparking flames. The suspect then entered the mansion, threw two additional Molotov cocktails in a dining area, and fled the residence.
Still on Governor’s mansion fire attack
Damage and Evacuation
The fire caused extensive damage to the home, with images released by state officials showing a dining area charred by flames, windows blown out, and light fixtures, furniture, and interior walls destroyed and covered with ash. Shapiro, his family, and another family in the house were safely evacuated from the residence by state troopers.
Investigation and Arrest
After the attack, Harrisburg police were contacted by a woman who said her ex-partner, Balmer, was the perpetrator. She told police Balmer had confessed to the act and wanted her to call police to turn him in. Balmer later approached a trooper outside Pennsylvania State Police headquarters and said he wished to turn himself in for the attack.
Balmer’s Confession
During an interview, Balmer told investigators he had filled Heineken beer bottles with gasoline from a lawn mower and intentionally threw them into the governor’s home. He also stated he was “harboring hatred” toward Shapiro and would have beaten the governor with a hammer if he had encountered him in the home.
Reaction from Officials
President Donald Trump said he “just heard about it” when asked for a reaction, while Vice President JD Vance condemned the “disgusting violence” and hoped the perpetrator would be brought swiftly to justice. Shapiro said he was not fearful but concerned for his family and left the determination of whether it was a hate crime to investigators.
FBI Involvement
Shapiro said he was in contact with FBI Director Kash Patel, who “promised all of the resources of the federal government.” The FBI’s Philadelphia field office was also in touch with State Police.
Charges and Next Steps
Balmer faces serious charges, including attempted murder and terrorism. It’s unclear if Balmer has an attorney. The investigation is ongoing, with state and federal authorities working together to determine the motives behind the attack.
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