In a shocking incident that occurred in the heart of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, a man has been charged after allegedly breaking into the Pennsylvania governor's mansion during the early hours of a significant Jewish holiday, Passover. The suspect, identified as Cody Balmer, 38, reportedly set a fire that caused extensive damage and prompted an urgent evacuation of Governor Josh Shapiro, his family, and guests.
The fire, which was extinguished by firefighters early Sunday morning, thankfully resulted in no injuries. Balmer was arrested later that day after he turned himself in to the authorities. According to police reports, he had expressed intentions of harming Governor Shapiro with a small sledgehammer if he encountered him during the incident.
Authorities are currently investigating how Balmer successfully evaded police to breach the governor's residence. Pennsylvania State Police Colonel Christopher Paris described the fire as a carefully planned attack, although he did not disclose a specific motive behind Balmer's actions.
Balmer allegedly scaled an iron security fence approximately 7 feet high, which is monitored by security cameras. Upon realizing someone had climbed over the fence, police initiated a pursuit but initially failed to locate the intruder. Reports indicate that Balmer broke into the southern wing of the mansion, which is often utilized for entertaining guests and displaying art, before igniting the fire with a homemade incendiary device. Investigators discovered two broken glass beer bottles filled with gasoline at the scene.
The fire inflicted considerable damage, charring walls, tables, buffet serving dishes, and even a piano. Window panes and surrounding brick were also left blackened by the flames. Authorities noted that Balmer spent about a minute inside the residence before fleeing the premises.
Following the incident, Balmer faces serious charges, including attempted murder, terrorism, aggravated arson, and aggravated assault. After a female acquaintance reported his confession to the police, Balmer admitted to harboring animosity towards Governor Shapiro. His criminal history spans over the past decade, with previous charges including simple assault, theft, and forgery. Balmer received probation after pleading guilty to theft and forgery charges, while unresolved simple assault charges from 2023 remain pending.
Governor Shapiro, who is viewed as a rising star in the Democratic Party and a potential presidential contender for 2028, was celebrating Passover with his wife, four children, and other family members when the incident occurred. He described the harrowing experience of being awakened by state troopers knocking on their doors around 2 a.m. on Sunday morning.
Shapiro has been an outspoken advocate for his Jewish faith, often sharing personal stories of his commitment to family and tradition during his political campaigns. He has emphasized the importance of faith in his life, often quoting an ancient rabbinic maxim that reflects the values of responsibility and perseverance.
The break-in and subsequent fire occurred during Passover, a major Jewish holiday that commemorates the liberation of the Israelites from slavery in ancient Egypt. The holiday began at sundown on Saturday and is marked by special meals known as Seders, which feature the retelling of the Exodus story and the consumption of matzah, an unleavened bread. The fact that this attack took place during such a significant religious observance adds an additional layer of gravity to the situation.
As the investigation continues, the community remains on high alert, reflecting on the implications of this alarming act against a state leader.
