A Harrisburg resident has been arrested and charged in connection with an arson attack at Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro’s residence early Sunday. The governor and his family were present during the incident and were safely evacuated.
According to authorities, the suspect, Cody A. Balmer, admitted to setting the governor’s home ablaze and stated he would have attacked Governor Shapiro with a hammer if he had encountered him.
Governor Shapiro expressed gratitude on X, saying, “This weekend, our family experienced the extraordinary courage and professionalism of our first responders. The entire Shapiro family is deeply thankful for the @PAStatePolice troopers who ensured our family’s safe evacuation, the firefighters who quickly extinguished the fire at the Governor’s Residence, and the law enforcement officials investigating this attack.”
The governor’s family and guests were observing the Jewish holiday of Passover, commemorating the Exodus of Jews from slavery in Egypt, on the night of the incident.
During a Monday press conference, Shapiro stated, “I refuse to be held back by the bondage that someone attempts to impose on me by attacking us as they did here last night. I will not allow anyone with such malicious intentions to deter me from the work I am passionate about.”
Balmer faces charges including attempted murder, aggravated arson, burglary, terrorism, and other related offenses.
Here’s what to know.
Who is Cody Balmer?
The suspect is identified as 38-year-old Cody Balmer.
Balmer was previously employed at Kindermans Auto Repair Shop in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. In a Facebook post, the shop stated, “Regarding a former employee, we want to clarify that he has not been with us for over 2 years. While we are saddened by these charges, we fully support law enforcement and government officials. We have no further comments at this time.”
Balmer frequently shared memes on his Facebook account. In a 2022 post with a meme, Balmer wrote, “Can’t pay rent? Sell your fucking organs! This is America be grateful for the opportunity you had.” He also shared posts about , and with an image of a Molotov cocktail embroidered with the words “Be the light you want to see in the world.”
Balmer has a history of theft and forgery charges and was also charged with assault in 2023, according to reports.
What Gov. Shapiro has said
Around 2 a.m., Governor Shapiro recounted being awakened by a state trooper knocking on his door after an arsonist set fire to his home. The family safely evacuated while firefighters put out the flames.
Surveillance footage revealed the suspect climbing a fence, entering the governor’s residence through the piano room windows, and throwing an incendiary device inside, as reported. A second device was thrown into the dining room and other areas of the house.
The suspect then exited the premises the same way he entered, by climbing over the perimeter fence.
The Pennsylvania State Police, Harrisburg Fire Department, and FBI are jointly investigating the incident. During Monday’s press conference, Shapiro thanked FBI Director Kash Patel and the President of the United States for their support.
“Lori and I are overwhelmed by the prayers and the messages of support that we’ve received from all across Pennsylvania and all across the United States,” Shapiro said. “I want you to know that your prayers lift us up. And in this moment of darkness we are choosing to see light.”
Where is Cody Balmer now?
Following the attack, authorities received a tip from Balmer’s former partner. Balmer allegedly confessed to her that he committed the crime and asked her to contact the police to turn him in. Subsequently, Balmer approached a Pennsylvania State Police officer outside the department headquarters, confessed to the crime, and requested to be taken into custody.
Balmer admitted to authorities that he held animosity towards Shapiro. He explained that he used gasoline from a lawnmower and Heineken bottles to create the incendiary devices. He then walked from his residence to the governor’s home to throw the devices.
During Monday’s press conference, Shapiro stated that authorities were aware the attack was targeted, but the exact motive is still under investigation. Authorities do not anticipate any conspiracy charges.
“This type of violence is not OK,” Shapiro said. “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 the other.”
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