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UPDATE: Suspect Arrested Following Arson Attack On Pennsylvania Governor’s Residence, Photos Of Damage Released
Pennsylvania State Police have arrested a suspect for the arson attack on the Pennsylvania Governor’s residence that forced Gov. Josh Shapiro and his family to evacuate early Sunday morning.
DEVELOPING: Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro Says “Arsonist Set Fire” To Residence While He And Family Slept
"Cody Balmer, 38, of Harrisburg, is expected to face charges of attempted murder, terrorism, aggravated arson, and aggravated assault against an enumerated person, authorities said," the New York Post reports.
BREAKING: Man arrested after arson attack at Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro's home, police say 38-year-old Cody Balmer will be charged with terrorism
— Fox News (@FoxNews) April 13, 2025
From the New York Post:
Balmer allegedly snuck into the gated compound that is the official residence of the governor by jumping a fence, according to police.
Investigators believe the attack was “targeted,” but haven’t determined a specific motive, Shapiro said. Police did not release more details on Balmer’s actions.
The Pennsylvania State Police will be conducting arson, attempted homicide, and aggravated arson investigations, Colonel Christopher Paris, state police commissioner, said.
Shapiro, a leader in the Democratic Party, was first elected governor of Pennsylvania in 2022 after serving six years as state attorney general. He was on the shortlist of potential running mates for former Vice President Kamala Harris’ failed 2024 presidential bid, and his name has been tossed around as a possible frontrunner for the 2028 presidential election.
"Extensive fire damage inside Pennsylvania Governor’s residence after arson attack overnight, seen here in a series of photos provided by @GovernorShapiro officers," FOX 29 Philadelphia reporter Steve Keeley said.
WATCH:
Extensive fire damage inside Pennsylvania Governor’s residence after arson attack overnight, seen here in a series of photos provided by @GovernorShapiro officers. pic.twitter.com/06CxpY3d79
— Steve Keeley (@KeeleyFox29) April 13, 2025
BREAKING: Photos from inside the Pennsylvania Governor Shapiro's house after police say arsonist set fire to the mansion pic.twitter.com/0BpzZ4xF6I
— Insider Paper (@TheInsiderPaper) April 14, 2025
Fox News reports:
Earlier on Sunday, Shapiro posted on X that he and his family awoke at about 2 a.m. to police banging on their door after "an arsonist set fire" to the governor’s residence.
"Thank God no one was injured and the fire was extinguished," Shapiro wrote. "Every day, we stand with the law enforcement and first responders who run towards danger to protect our communities. Last night, they did so for our family – and Lori and I are eternally grateful to them for keeping us safe."
No one was injured, and the fire was extinguished, police said, adding that the fire caused significant damage to a portion of the residence.
"While the investigation is ongoing, the State Police is prepared to say at this time that this was an act of arson," police said.
Before Balmer's arrest, police offered a $10,000 reward for the arrest and conviction of the individual or individuals responsible for the fire.
In a statement, Pennsylvania Republican Party Chairman Greg Rothman also denounced the incident.
"I know I speak for all Republicans in saying we are grateful that Governor Shapiro, his family and mansion staff are safe," Rothman said Sunday. "Thank you to the Harrisburg Fire Department, PA State Police and all of the emergency services personnel for their hard work and dedication."
"If it is determined that this was a criminal act, those responsible should face swift justice," Rothman added. "There is no place for violence, arson, and the destruction of property in our society."