Cody Balmer, a 38-year-old male, is facing multiple charges including attempted murder and terrorism after his alleged arson attack on Governor Shapiro's residence. The attack coincided with the Jewish holiday of Passover, raising questions about the motives behind the fire.**
Arrest Made Following Arson Attack at Pennsylvania Governor's Residence**
Arrest Made Following Arson Attack at Pennsylvania Governor's Residence**
A suspect is apprehended after a fire severely damages the home of Governor Josh Shapiro during a suspected arson incident.**
A 38-year-old man, identified as Cody Balmer, has been arrested and is facing serious charges in connection with an alleged arson attack on the official residence of Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro. Authorities announced the arrest, which includes charges of attempted murder, terrorism, aggravated arson, and aggravated assault, shortly after the incident that occurred late at night.
Governor Shapiro, who has been considered a potential candidate for a vice-presidential run, recounted his experience during a news conference on Sunday, revealing that he was awakened by law enforcement knocking on his door while a fire was raging in the home. Shapiro emphasized the emotional impact of the situation, stating that despite the chaos, he and his family managed to escape unharmed. The governor's residence, located in Harrisburg, sustained considerable damage from the flames.
The incident took place shortly after Shapiro and his family had celebrated the first night of Passover, a significant Jewish holiday. In his address to reporters, Shapiro mentioned the contrast between the celebrations earlier in the evening and the danger that unfolded shortly afterwards. While the exact motives behind Balmer’s actions remain unclear, police confirmed that he was found in possession of a homemade incendiary device at the time of his arrest.
Initial investigations by fire safety officials indicated that the fire had caused "a significant amount of damage" within a portion of the residence, which is a Georgian-style home measuring approximately 29,000 sq ft. The Shapiro family was located in a different part of the house when the fire was ignited, allowing for their safe evacuation.
Following the incident, state authorities offered a reward of $10,000 for information leading to the arrest, although it remains ambiguous if any tips contributed to Balmer's apprehension. Balmer was arrested in Harrisburg and remains in custody. Governor Shapiro, who took office in 2023 after serving as the state’s attorney general, has a family that includes his wife, Lori, and their four children: Sophia, Jonah, Max, and Reuben.
