HARRISBURG, Pa.** – Authorities have arrested a mechanic in connection with the arson fire that occurred early Sunday morning at the residence of Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro. The suspect, identified as 38-year-old Cody Balmer from Harrisburg, has previously expressed significant discontent with the Democratic Party on social media.
The fire was reported around 2 a.m. ET while Governor Shapiro and his family were inside the home. Fortunately, they were evacuated safely and reported no injuries, according to state police.
Dauphin County District Attorney Fran Chardo announced that investigators found items at Balmer’s residence that matched those used in the arson, including a distinctive Snap-On jacket and a gasoline container. Charges against Balmer include attempted murder, terrorism, aggravated arson, and aggravated assault against a specific individual.
Balmer was taken to a local hospital due to a medical issue that was unrelated to the fire or his arrest. At a press conference on Monday morning, Chardo revealed that Balmer allegedly confessed to the crime.
Sources familiar with Balmer noted that his grievances with the Democratic Party were largely related to financial concerns. Investigators are probing into his financial history to better understand any underlying issues he may have been facing.
Governor Shapiro described the attack as “targeted,” stating, “We know that this attack was targeted… this type of violence is not okay. I don’t care if it’s coming from one particular side or the other, directed at one particular party or another.”
Just hours before the incident, Shapiro had shared a photo of his family’s Passover Seder table on social media, wishing others a happy Passover.
This alarming incident sheds light on the potential for political tensions to escalate into violence, prompting calls for increased vigilance and dialogue across political divides.
