Terror suspect in custody after setting governor’s mansion on fire
By Christina Lengyel | The Center Square
(The Center Square) – Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro and his family are safe but shaken after the Governor’s Residence in Harrisburg was targeted by an arsonist early this morning.
Pennsylvania State Police and Harrisburg District Attorney Fran Chardo announced that they have a suspect, 38-year-old Cody Balmer of Harrisburg, in custody.
The suspect was able to enter the grounds by jumping over a fence at around 2:00 a.m. While Pennsylvania State Police searched for the suspect, he was able to break in and use homemade incendiary devices to ignite a fire in the dining room of the residence where the family had celebrated Passover during the evening.
Though no one was hurt, the fire caused extensive damage to the historic Front Street mansion. Pennsylvania State Police Col. Christopher Paris said that the crime scene had been processed and released. Physical evidence is currently being analyzed for what appears to be aggravated arson and attempted homicide.
“Last night we experienced an attack not just on our family but on the entire commonwealth of Pennsylvania here at the Governor’s Residence,” said Shapiro, whose wife, children, two dogs, and extended family were quickly evacuated from the property.
Shapiro said that he had spoken with Federal Bureau of Investigations Director Kash Patel who promised all of the resources of the federal government. He noted that Patel had been “extremely kind, courteous, and thoughtful.” Shapiro also thanked the president, though not by name.
“This type of violence is not okay. 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 another,” said Shapiro forcefully. “We have a responsibility to all be better.”
Shapiro did not speak to the suspect’s motivation for starting the fire, though District Attorney Fran Chardo said that the probable cause affidavit would provide additional details. He noted that the suspect would be charged with terrorism and that the U.S. attorney’s office would determine whether additional federal charges would be filed.
The governor chose to focus his attention on the prayers and kind words coming from around the state and country from both government officials and members of the public.
“In this moment of darkness, we are choosing to see light, and we appreciate the light that you have shined upon us,” said Shapiro.
To that end, Pennsylvania GOP Chairman Greg Rothman issued a statement saying, “I know I speak for all Republicans in saying we are grateful that Governor Shapiro, his family, and mansion staff are safe.”
“There is no place for violence, arson, and the destruction of property in our society,” added Rothman.
Due to the timing of the crime and the surge in antisemitic rhetoric nationally, some are speculating that the incident was a hate crime.
“No one will deter me or my family or any Pennsylvanian from celebrating their faith openly and proudly,” said Shapiro, who noted the Passover story of escape from bondage was an especially important one to tell today.
Shapiro said that while his current focus was on ensuring that his wife and children were okay, he “would not be deterred” from his work as governor. He expressed his thanks to his security detail, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Harrisburg Fire Department, the district attorney, and all other agencies assisting with the investigation and his family’s security.
