Pennsylvania man charged after setting fire at governor’s mansion during Passover
A man has been charged with multiple offenses after allegedly breaking into the official residence of Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro and setting a fire in the early hours of April 13, 2025.
As reported by various media outlets, Cody Balmer, 38, is accused of entering the Harrisburg mansion by scaling a fence and starting a fire in a room used for public gatherings.
The fire led to visible damage but no injuries.
Governor Shapiro, his family, and guests evacuated safely after being alerted by state troopers around 2 a.m.
According to authorities, Balmer used homemade incendiary devices made from beer bottles filled with gasoline to start the fire.
He is currently facing charges including attempted murder, terrorism, aggravated arson, and aggravated assault.
Homemade device used to start fire at historic mansion
Pennsylvania State Police Col. Christopher Paris confirmed that the attack was methodically carried out and remains under investigation.
Balmer was inside the mansion for less than one minute before fleeing the scene.
According to police, Balmer entered the property by climbing a 7-foot fence monitored by surveillance cameras.
Officers began a search after identifying a breach, but were unable to locate Balmer before the fire was set.
Authorities reported finding two broken beer bottles containing gasoline at the scene.
The fire charred walls, furnishings, serving dishes, and a piano in the southern wing of the residence.
Damage to window panes and brick around entryways was also documented.
Suspect turned himself in and expressed intent to harm governor
Court documents revealed that Balmer later turned himself in to police and said he had planned to harm Governor Shapiro with a small sledgehammer if he encountered him.
A former partner of Balmer contacted police after he allegedly confessed the crime to her.
According to a police affidavit, Balmer admitted he “harbored hatred” toward Shapiro.
No further motive has been made public.
Records indicate Balmer has previous convictions for theft and forgery, and a pending charge of simple assault from 2023.
Balmer was transported to a hospital for a medical issue unrelated to the incident or his arrest.
He remains under police supervision and will be arraigned following his discharge from medical care.
Governor and family evacuated safely during holiday observance
Governor Shapiro said his family, including his wife, four children, and two dogs, were celebrating Passover at the time of the attack.
The fire occurred in the same room where they had hosted a Seder hours earlier.
Shapiro stated: “Last night we experienced an attack not just on our family but on the entire Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.”
He thanked the Pennsylvania State Police, Harrisburg Fire Department, and other agencies for their response and continued support.
Shapiro added: “We celebrated our faith last night proudly and in a few hours we will celebrate our second Seder of Passover again proudly.
No one will deter me or my family or any Pennsylvanian from celebrating their faith openly and proudly.”
Law enforcement continues investigation and reviews security
Col. Paris said a multi-agency investigation is ongoing.
No additional suspects are currently expected, and no conspiracy charges are being considered at this time.
The governor’s security detail and responding firefighters were credited with preventing injuries and further damage.
A comprehensive review of security measures at the residence is underway, including surveillance and patrol protocols.
District Attorney Fran Chardo confirmed charges were being filed and said a probable cause affidavit would outline further details.
Federal involvement remains under review, and additional charges may be considered.
Suspect charged after arson fire at Pennsylvania governor’s residence: Summary
A fire was set inside Pennsylvania’s governor’s mansion on April 13, 2025.
The suspect, Cody Balmer, entered the residence by climbing a perimeter fence and ignited the fire using beer bottles filled with gasoline.
Governor Josh Shapiro, his family, and guests evacuated safely.
The fire caused visible damage to a state reception room.
Authorities said Balmer later turned himself in.
He faces state charges including attempted murder, terrorism, aggravated arson, and aggravated assault.
Police said the incident lasted several minutes and was captured on surveillance.
A review of security operations is ongoing. No motive has been confirmed.
Balmer reportedly expressed hostility toward the governor in a police affidavit. He has previous convictions.
Balmer was hospitalized after a medical event not related to the incident. He remains under supervision.
The investigation includes state and federal agencies. A full complaint and probable cause affidavit are expected to be made public.
