Investigators are still probing whether the attack was motivated by antisemitism or political grievances.

Philadelphia, PA — In the early hours of Sunday, April 13, 2025, a fire broke out at the Pennsylvania Governor’s Residence in Harrisburg, forcing Governor Josh Shapiro, his family, and guests to evacuate.

Authorities have confirmed the fire was an act of arson, leaving significant damage to the historic property. The incident occurred around 2 a.m. during Passover, a sacred Jewish holiday, intensifying concerns about potential motives behind the attack.

The suspect, identified as 38-year-old Cody Balmer of Harrisburg, was apprehended later that day.

According to Col. Christopher Paris of the Pennsylvania State Police, Balmer had homemade incendiary devices in his possession.

Charges including attempted murder, terrorism, and aggravated arson are expected to be filed by Dauphin County District Attorney Fran Chardo.

Investigators are still probing whether the attack was motivated by antisemitism or political grievances.

Balmer has faced criminal charges on several occasions over the past decade, including for assault, forgery, and traffic-related offenses.

In 2023, Balmer was charged with three counts of simple assault in a case that is ongoing. In 2016, he pleaded guilty to one felony count of forgery and was sentenced to 18 months of probation.

Governor Shapiro expressed gratitude to law enforcement and first responders for their quick action in containing the blaze and ensuring his family’s safety.

“My family and I are deeply thankful for the brave efforts of those who protected us during this terrifying ordeal,” he stated in a social media post.

The fire inflicted considerable damage on the residence but did not result in injuries. Shapiro’s family, including his wife Lori, their four children, two dogs, and another visiting family, were safely evacuated. The Harrisburg Bureau of Fire swiftly extinguished the flames.

This attack comes amid rising threats against public officials in recent years.

Incidents such as the 2023 plot to kidnap Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer and the attack on then-Speaker of the House residence Nancy Pelosi resulting in a hammer attack on her husband highlight an alarming trend of violence targeting elected leaders.

Governor Shapiro’s Jewish identity adds another layer of complexity to this incident.

Shapiro is one of six Jewish governors currently serving in the U.S., alongside Jared Polis (CO), J.B. Pritzker (IL), Josh Green (HI), Matt Meyer (DE), and Josh Stein (NC). Jews represent just over 2% of the U.S. population and hold approximately 6% of seats in Congress, with 35 Jewish lawmakers serving in the 119th Congress. The Senate majority leader of New York, Chuck Schumer, being one.

The timing of the arson—during Passover—has raised questions about whether it was a hate crime aimed at Shapiro’s faith or an act of political extremism. While no motive has been officially confirmed, advocacy groups have called for increased security measures for Jewish leaders and institutions nationwide.

Jewish Americans have long faced antisemitism despite their significant contributions to U.S. society. The Jewish population in Pennsylvania is approximately 434,165 individuals or 3.3% of the state’s total population—among the highest percentages in the country.

As investigators continue their work, public officials and community leaders have condemned the attack as an assault on democracy and religious freedom.

“This heinous act reminds us that we must remain vigilant against hatred and violence,” said Rabbi David Katz of Harrisburg’s Congregation Beth El.

The Pennsylvania Governor’s Residence has stood as a symbol of leadership since its construction in 1968. The damage caused by this arson attack underscores growing concerns about threats to public officials and their families.

Shapiro has vowed to rebuild and continue serving Pennsylvanians with resilience and determination. “This will not deter me from my commitment to justice and equality,” he affirmed.

Arson at Pennsylvania Governor’s Residence During Passover (April 13, 2025)

#ArsonAttack #JoshShapiro #PennsylvaniaGovernor #Passover2025
#HateCrime #PublicSafety #JewishLeaders #Resilience #ReligiousFreedom

Tags: Josh Shapiro, Pennsylvania Governor’s Residence, Harrisburg fire,
arson, Passover attack, antisemitism, Jewish leaders, public safety threats