Arson Attack On PA Governor's Home

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James Kratch
April 14, 2025

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A Pennsylvania man is accused of setting fire to the governor's residence in the state capital.

The news: Gov. Mark Shapiro and his family were present when a fire was reported around 2 a.m. at the official gubernatorial residence in Harrisburg. But they were safely evacuated without injury. Officials said the building suffered "significant damage."
The suspect: Cody Balmer, 38, will face charges including attempted murder, terrorism and aggravated arson after allegedly starting the fire with a Molotov cocktail. He may also face federal charges. Officials believe the attack was targeted, but have not established a motive. Balmer has reportedly made social media posts attacking Democrats. Shapiro is Jewish; authorities said they have not ruled out antisemitism.
Big picture: Shapiro, a Democrat, is expected to be a top contender for the party's presidential nomination in 2028. He was previously Pennsylvania's attorney general and was considered to be former Vice President Kamala Harris' running mate.

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