Man Arrested for Allegedly Setting Fire to Pennsylvania Governor’s Mansion

A 38-year-old man, identified as Cody Balmer, has been arrested and faces multiple charges including attempted murder and terrorism after allegedly setting fire to the Pennsylvania Governor’s Mansion early Sunday morning, Fox News reports.

Governor Josh Shapiro and his family were asleep inside the residence at the time of the incident.

According to Pennsylvania State Police Lt. Col. George Bivens, the incident occurred around 2:00 a.m. Balmer allegedly hopped a fence to access the property and used “homemade incendiary devices” to start the fire.

Balmer is slated to be charged with attempted murder, terrorism, aggravated arson, and aggravated assault against an enumerated person.

The fire broke out overnight after Shapiro and his family celebrated the first night of Passover. Shapiro, considered a potential presidential contender for the Democratic Party in 2028, took to X earlier on Sunday to describe the incident.

“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.”

The Governor also addressed the incident in emotional remarks during a press conference Sunday evening.

Authorities confirmed that no one was injured, and the fire was successfully extinguished. However, police noted that the fire caused significant damage to a portion of the residence.

Prior to Balmer’s arrest, police had offered a $10,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible.

Pennsylvania Republican Party Chairman Greg Rothman issued a statement denouncing the arson, underscoring the widespread condemnation of the alleged crime.