Governor Shapiro Targeted: Man Arrested After Arson Attack on Mansion During Passover
Cody Balmer was arrested after attempting to break into Governor Shapiro's mansion and setting a fire, expressing intent to harm.
Arsonist sought to hammer Pennsylvania governor, police say
World News Group
What We Know About the Arson Attack on Josh Shapiro’s Home
New York Magazine
Arson suspected at Pennsylvania governor's mansion
Straight Arrow News
Overview
On April 13, 2025, 38-year-old Cody Balmer was arrested after he broke into Governor Josh Shapiro’s mansion in Pennsylvania, setting a fire that caused significant damage during the Passover holiday. He had planned to attack Shapiro with a sledgehammer if found. Balmer scaled an iron fence and used gasoline-filled beer bottles as Molotov cocktails. No injuries were reported, but the incident triggered an evacuation. Shapiro, who views this as a violent act against his faith, remains resolute in his duties. Balmer faces multiple charges including attempted homicide, terrorism, and aggravated arson.
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Analysis
- A suspect, identified as 38-year-old Cody Balmer, has been arrested in connection with the arson at the Governor's Residence, with charges including attempted murder and terrorism expected to be filed shortly. Reports reveal he expressed a desire to violently confront Governor Shapiro if given the chance, highlighting the planned nature of his attack.
- Gov. Josh Shapiro and his family were evacuated safely after the arson fire, which caused extensive damage to the residence, with the incident being investigated as a hate crime potentially linked to the timing on the first night of Passover. Shapiro emphasized the need for society to reject political violence, regardless of its source or targets.
- The Pennsylvania State Police are offering a $10,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible for the arson, emphasizing the community's role in combating political violence. Shapiro's emotional response during a press conference calls for unity against such acts that threaten public officials.
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Associated Press·3M·FAQ
The motive behind Cody Balmer's attack remains unspecified in the available reports, but the incident occurred while Governor Shapiro and his family celebrated the first night of Passover.
Cody Balmer scaled an iron fence to gain access to the mansion before setting the fires, and he had prepared homemade incendiary devices.
Cody Balmer is facing charges of attempted murder, terrorism, aggravated arson, and aggravated assault against an enumerated person.
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