HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP) — An arsonist set fire to the Pennsylvania Governor’s Residence early Sunday April 13, while Gov. Josh Shapiro, his family and guests were inside, authorities said. No injuries were reported, but the blaze caused significant damage to the historic home and has prompted a terrorism investigation.
The attack occurred around 2 a.m. Sunday—hours after the Shapiro family had celebrated the start of Passover with a Seder. According to officials, 38-year-old Cody Allen Balmer of Penbrook, Pennsylvania, allegedly threw two Molotov cocktails at the residence. He later turned himself in to police and was charged with terrorism, attempted murder, aggravated arson and aggravated assault.
In a statement released Monday, Shapiro expressed gratitude that his family and guests were unharmed.
“We are safe, and we are grateful to the first responders whose swift action prevented an even more devastating outcome,” he said.
Authorities said the fire severely damaged the southern portion of the residence, which has served as the official home of Pennsylvania governors since 1968. Firefighters were able to contain the blaze before it spread to the main living quarters.
Balmer’s mother told investigators her son has schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, and that he had recently stopped taking his medication. According to law enforcement, Balmer harbored hatred toward Shapiro and had intended to assault the governor with a sledgehammer if given the opportunity.
The attack came during a weekend of heightened national attention for Shapiro, who had canceled a scheduled fundraising trip to the Hamptons amid speculation he might be selected as Vice President Kamala Harris’s running mate for the 2024 presidential election. That speculation ended Sunday evening when Harris announced Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her choice.
Despite the political buzz, the arson quickly became the focus of the weekend. A joint investigation is now underway involving state police, the FBI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
“An attack on the Governor’s Residence is an attack on the safety and security of all Pennsylvanians,” said State Police Commissioner Christopher Paris. “We will pursue justice with the full weight of the law.”
Balmer is being held without bail and is expected to undergo a mental health evaluation. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for later this week.