Harrisburg Man Who Set Fire to Gov. Josh Shapiro’s Residence Charged with Attempted Homicide, Terrorism, Arson, and Burglary
38-year-old Cody Balmer of Harrisburg has been arrested and charged with multiple felonies, including attempted homicide, terrorism, aggravated arson, and burglary, following an early morning arson attack on the Pennsylvania Governor’s Residence.
According to a court document obtained by The Gateway Pundit, Balmer meticulously planned the assault. Balmer entered the Governor’s Mansion around 1:43 a.m. on Sunday.
Security footage obtained by law enforcement shows Balmer breaking into the piano room on the south side of the residence, igniting the first fire, then moving to the dining room to ignite a second device.
The flames caused significant damage to the historic mansion, where Shapiro, his wife Lori, their four children, and extended family were celebrating the Jewish holiday of Passover just hours earlier.
Upon turning himself in, Balmer confessed to harboring hatred toward Governor Shapiro and admitted that he intended to harm the governor with a hammer if confronted.
A search of Balmer’s home uncovered key pieces of evidence—including the “Snap-On” jacket, black bag, and hammer matching those seen in the security footage.
Gasoline-soaked gloves discarded on a nearby street were also found in a trash bin and matched surveillance evidence.
Investigators are examining whether the attack was politically or ideologically motivated, as Balmer’s actions suggest a targeted attempt to intimidate or harm a public official, according to Politico.
Balmer faces at least eight charges:
- Attempted Criminal Homicide
- Aggravated Arson – Person Present
- Burglary – Overnight Accommodations with Person Present
- Recklessly Endangering Another Person
- Terrorism – To Affect Conduct of Government
- Aggravated Assault – Serious Bodily Injury to Public Officials
- Loitering and Prowling at Nighttime
- Aggravated Assault – Attempt to Cause Injury to Designated Individuals
If convicted, Balmer could face decades—possibly life—in prison.
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