A Harrisburg resident named Cody Balmer, 38, was arrested following a deliberate fire at Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro's official residence. This alarming event occurred shortly after midnight, disrupting a significant family celebration.
According to the York Daily Record, the residence of Governor Josh Shapiro in Harrisburg became a crime scene following an arson attack that resulted in significant damage and led to the arrest of local man Cody Balmer.
According to reports, the fire was reported around 2 a.m. at the governor's residence located on North Front Street. Firefighters were quick to respond to the emergency, playing a crucial role in controlling the situation.
Governor Shapiro and his family were at home during the incident, coming just hours after they began observing the Passover festival. Fortunately, state police were able to evacuate everyone safely, ensuring there were no physical injuries among the governor’s household.
Details provided by the Pennsylvania State Police highlight how Balmer allegedly scaled a fence and entered the premises, using a homemade incendiary device to start the fire. He was reportedly inside the home for approximately one minute, enough to set the destructive action in motion.
The fire inflicted significant damage to a part of the residence. The specific area affected was described as having suffered considerably, although exact descriptions of the damaged portions were not disclosed.
In his response to the night's events, Governor Shapiro expressed a mix of gratitude and resilience. "Last night at about 2AM, my family and I woke up to bangs on the door from the Pennsylvania State Police after an arsonist set fire to the Governor’s Residence in Harrisburg," Shapiro stated. He continued to praise the quick reaction of the responding officers and firemen who ensured the safety of his family.
Subsequent to the fire, a multi-agency investigation has been launched involving State Police and the FBI. The immediate goal is to thoroughly investigate the motivations behind Balmer’s actions and to assess any further threats.
On the security front, a thorough review of safety protocols at the governor's mansion has been initiated. This aims to bolster defenses and prevent similar incidents in the future.
During a news conference where details of the arrest were disclosed, Colonel Christopher Paris, Commissioner of the Pennsylvania State Police, and Dauphin County District Attorney Francis Chardo confirmed the charges expected to be brought against Balmer.
Governor Shapiro, in a statement reflective of his resolve and commitment to openness, declared, "No one will deter me or my family or any Pennsylvanian from celebrating their faith openly and proudly."
As the investigation continues, the community is left to reflect on the quick response of law enforcement and the resilience of public officials in the face of such adversarial conditions. Governor Shapiro's acknowledgment of the first responders' bravery underscores the critical nature of their roles in such emergencies.
Within the broader community, the incident has sparked discussions on safety and security, especially concerning public figures.
As Pennsylvania reels from this shocking incident, many hope for a swift and just resolution, ensuring the safety and confidence in public governance remains intact.