In the early hours of Sunday, an arsonist targeted the official residence of Pennsylvania governor Josh Shapiro in Harrisburg, causing significant damage to the southern portion of the Georgian-style mansion. Governor Shapiro, his family, and guests were safely evacuated. No injuries were reported in the incident.
Authorities arrested 38-year-old Cody Allen Balmer , a former mechanic from Penbrook, Pennsylvania. Balmer allegedly scaled the perimeter fence, entered the property with homemade incendiary devices, and set multiple fires before fleeing, reported the New York Magazine. He was apprehended later the same day and now faces several charges, including attempted murder, terrorism, aggravated arson, and aggravated assault. The suspect’s photo has not yet been released.
Governor Shapiro thanked first responders and law enforcement for their swift action. “Thank God no one was injured and the fire was extinguished,” he said in a statement, as reported by New York Magazine. He also condemned the incident as part of a growing trend of political violence, adding, “This kind of violence is becoming far too common in our society, and I don't give a damn if it's coming from one particular side or the other... it is not okay, and it has to stop.”
The FBI is assisting in the ongoing investigation, and authorities are now reviewing security protocols at the Governor’s Residence. While the motive is still under investigation, New York Magazine reported that preliminary theories include possible political or antisemitic intent, though no official confirmation has been made.
Reacting to the attack, JD Vance posted on social media: “Thanks be to God that governor Shapiro and his family were unharmed in this attack. Really disgusting violence, and I hope whoever did it is brought swiftly to justice.”
The Pennsylvania Governor’s Residence, completed in 1968, has rarely suffered such extensive damage. According to New York Magazine, the last comparable incident occurred during Hurricane Agnes in 1972.
Who is Josh Shapiro
Josh Shapiro is the 48th governor of Pennsylvania, having assumed office in January 2023. A member of the Democratic Party, he previously served as Pennsylvania's Attorney General from 2017 to 2023 and was a state representative from 2005 to 2012. Born on June 20, 1973, in Kansas City, Missouri, Shapiro was raised in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania. He earned a bachelor's degree from the University of Rochester and a law degree from Georgetown University. Known for his moderate political stance, Shapiro has been recognized for his bipartisan appeal and is considered a rising figure within the Democratic Party.
Authorities arrested 38-year-old Cody Allen Balmer , a former mechanic from Penbrook, Pennsylvania. Balmer allegedly scaled the perimeter fence, entered the property with homemade incendiary devices, and set multiple fires before fleeing, reported the New York Magazine. He was apprehended later the same day and now faces several charges, including attempted murder, terrorism, aggravated arson, and aggravated assault. The suspect’s photo has not yet been released.
Governor Shapiro thanked first responders and law enforcement for their swift action. “Thank God no one was injured and the fire was extinguished,” he said in a statement, as reported by New York Magazine. He also condemned the incident as part of a growing trend of political violence, adding, “This kind of violence is becoming far too common in our society, and I don't give a damn if it's coming from one particular side or the other... it is not okay, and it has to stop.”
The FBI is assisting in the ongoing investigation, and authorities are now reviewing security protocols at the Governor’s Residence. While the motive is still under investigation, New York Magazine reported that preliminary theories include possible political or antisemitic intent, though no official confirmation has been made.
Reacting to the attack, JD Vance posted on social media: “Thanks be to God that governor Shapiro and his family were unharmed in this attack. Really disgusting violence, and I hope whoever did it is brought swiftly to justice.”
The Pennsylvania Governor’s Residence, completed in 1968, has rarely suffered such extensive damage. According to New York Magazine, the last comparable incident occurred during Hurricane Agnes in 1972.
Who is Josh Shapiro
Josh Shapiro is the 48th governor of Pennsylvania, having assumed office in January 2023. A member of the Democratic Party, he previously served as Pennsylvania's Attorney General from 2017 to 2023 and was a state representative from 2005 to 2012. Born on June 20, 1973, in Kansas City, Missouri, Shapiro was raised in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania. He earned a bachelor's degree from the University of Rochester and a law degree from Georgetown University. Known for his moderate political stance, Shapiro has been recognized for his bipartisan appeal and is considered a rising figure within the Democratic Party.
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