A 38-year-old man has been arrested and faces multiple felony charges after allegedly setting fire to the Pennsylvania governor’s mansion early Sunday morning while Governor Josh Shapiro and his family were asleep inside.
During a press conference Sunday evening, authorities identified the suspect as Cody Balmer, who will be charged with attempted murder, terrorism, aggravated arson, and aggravated assault against a protected person.
The fire broke out just hours after Governor Shapiro—widely considered a potential 2028 Democratic presidential contender—and his family had celebrated the first night of Passover.
According to a post from Shapiro on X (formerly Twitter), the family was awakened around 2 a.m. by police knocking on their door after an “arsonist set fire” to the 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 toward danger to protect our communities. Last night, they did so for our family—and Lori and I are eternally grateful.”
Firefighters and state police responded swiftly and managed to extinguish the flames. While no injuries were reported, authorities confirmed that the fire caused significant structural damage to part of the residence.
“While the investigation is ongoing,” the Pennsylvania State Police stated, “we are prepared to say this was an intentional act of arson.”
At the evening press conference, Shapiro condemned the incident with strong and emotional remarks, pointing to a larger climate of political hostility and violence.
“This kind of violence is becoming far too common in our society,” he said.
“And I don’t give a damn if it’s coming from one particular side or the other, or directed at one party or another—it is not okay, and it has to stop. We have to be better than this.”
Prior to Balmer’s arrest, police had announced a $10,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible.
The motive behind the alleged attack remains unclear as the investigation continues.
