A man is in custody after an early morning fire at the Pennsylvania governor’s mansion, which state police say caused a “significant amount of damage.”
The suspect, identified as 38-year-old Cody Balmer of Harrisburg, will face charges including attempted murder, terrorism, attempted arson, and aggravated assault, according to Dauphin County DA Francis Chardo.
Gov. Josh Shapiro, his wife, four children, two dogs, and guests celebrating Passover were safely evacuated around 2 a.m.
“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,” Shapiro said. “Thank God no one was injured and the fire was extinguished.”
Authorities say Balmer breached the security fence and entered the residence with a homemade incendiary device. “The investigation is continuing,” said State Police Col. Christopher Paris. Police deputy commissioner George Bivens confirmed Balmer had evaded detection initially.
Visible fire damage included destroyed glass panes and charred doors on the mansion’s south side. Investigators removed part of the fence wrapped in black plastic for evidence.
Former governors condemned the act. “This despicable act of cowardice,” said Mark Schweiker, “should unite Pennsylvanians in support of the Shapiro family.” Tom Ridge called the attack “shocking” and said those responsible “must be held to account.”
The Pennsylvania State Police are offering a $10,000 reward for information leading to a conviction.
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