Press Release: Man Arrested for Attempted Arson at Governor’s Mansion
Harrisburg, PA – A man is in custody after allegedly breaking into the Pennsylvania governor’s mansion early Sunday morning, setting a fire that resulted in significant damage and forcing Governor Josh Shapiro and his family to evacuate during the Jewish holiday of Passover.
The suspect, identified as 38-year-old Cody Balmer, was apprehended later that day after he voluntarily turned himself in. Authorities report that Balmer intended to confront Governor Shapiro with a small sledgehammer, reflecting his admitted animosity towards the governor, as detailed in court documents.
Balmer scaled the mansion’s seven-foot iron security fence, evading initial police pursuits. Once inside, he ignited a fire using homemade incendiary devices composed of gasoline-filled glass bottles. The flames caused extensive damage to the southern wing of the residence, charring walls, furniture, and other belongings. Fortunately, there were no injuries reported.
Pennsylvania State Police Colonel Christopher Paris stated the incident appears to have been a “carefully planned attack,” although the investigation remains ongoing and a motive has yet to be disclosed. Balmer’s actions have resulted in several serious charges, including attempted murder, terrorism, aggravated arson, and aggravated assault.
Online court records indicate Balmer has a history of criminal charges over the past decade, including theft and assault, and was previously sentenced to probation for these offenses. More recently, he faced unresolved simple assault charges in 2023.
As the investigation continues, authorities are working to understand how Balmer managed to breach the governor’s residence, underscoring the need for heightened security measures at such facilities.
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