Harrisburg Man Charged with Terrorism and Attempted Murder After Governor’s Residence Fire
HARRISBURG, PA — A shocking early morning attack on April 13, 2025, has sent ripples through Pennsylvania and the nation after a man allegedly set fire to the Governor’s Residence in Harrisburg, prompting a rapid evacuation of Governor Josh Shapiro, his family, and guests celebrating the Jewish holiday of Passover.
Authorities have identified the suspect as Cody Balmer, 38, of Harrisburg. Balmer was arrested shortly after the blaze and now faces a slew of serious felony charges including attempted murder, terrorism, aggravated arson, and aggravated assault, Dauphin County District Attorney Francis Chardo confirmed in a press briefing.
A Chilling Chain of Events
The incident began around 2:00 a.m. Sunday morning, when officials say Balmer illegally entered the Governor’s Residence on North Front Street by scaling a high-security perimeter fence. Once on the grounds, he forcibly breached the residence itself and is believed to have deployed a homemade incendiary device, according to Pennsylvania State Police Deputy Commissioner George Bivens.
The device ignited a fire that quickly spread through part of the building, setting off alarms and prompting immediate action by state troopers stationed at the residence.
Despite initial evasion of responding law enforcement, Balmer was eventually apprehended in the surrounding area following an intense search involving multiple agencies and K9 units.
Harrowing Moments for the Governor’s Family
Governor Josh Shapiro held an emotional press conference later Sunday, recounting the terrifying moments when his family was awakened by security officers and evacuated from their home.
Shapiro, his wife Lori, their four children, two family dogs, and another family staying with them for the Passover holiday, were safely led out of the building in the dark of night.
“We told the story of Passover just hours before,” Shapiro said. “And then we were forced to leave our home in the middle of the night—together, afraid, but unharmed. I refuse to be trapped by the bondage that someone attempted to put on me by attacking us as they did last night.”
Shapiro expressed deep gratitude to the troopers and first responders who quickly handled the emergency. He also condemned the broader societal issue of escalating political violence:
“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. Directed at one particular party or another… It is not okay — and it has to stop.”
Damage and Response
Although no injuries were reported, the fire caused significant damage to a large room in the residence, commonly used for formal entertaining and art exhibits. The Harrisburg Bureau of Fire responded swiftly, containing the blaze and assisting with the evacuation effort.
By Sunday afternoon, parts of the mansion’s south side bore visible charring, and law enforcement maintained a heavy presence around the property. Yellow police tape cordoned off areas surrounding the grounds, while investigators worked through the scene with K9 units.
Shapiro’s office confirmed that federal law enforcement agencies, including the Department of Justice, FBI, and U.S. Attorney’s Office, have offered assistance and are now actively involved in the ongoing investigation.
Political and Public Outcry
The attack has drawn bipartisan condemnation from across Pennsylvania and beyond. Former Governors Tom Ridge and Mark Schweiker, both Republicans, issued strong statements decrying the act.
“This was a despicable act of cowardice,” said Ridge. “An attack on the Governor’s family is an attack on our Commonwealth. It cannot and will not be tolerated.”
Messages of support have poured in from political figures nationwide, including fellow governors, members of Congress, and national security officials.
What Comes Next
As the investigation deepens, authorities have not yet released information on Balmer’s motive or any prior history of extremist activity. With charges including terrorism and attempted murder, the case is likely to draw federal scrutiny and spark renewed debate over security at government residences and the rise of domestic threats.
For now, Governor Shapiro and his family are safe, though visibly shaken by what he described as both a personal and symbolic attack.
“This isn’t just about us,” Shapiro said. “This is about the direction we’re heading as a society. We must do better. We can do better.”
The Governor has vowed to continue his duties without interruption, while damage assessments and security evaluations of the residence continue.
Anyone with additional information related to this case is urged to contact the Pennsylvania State Police or the Dauphin County District Attorney’s Office.