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Suspect Detained After Arson at Pennsylvania Governor’s Mansion; Shapiro Family Evacuated
Law enforcement officials have detained an individual following a suspected arson incident at the Pennsylvania Governor’s Mansion in Harrisburg. Governor Josh Shapiro and his family were safely evacuated from the residence after a fire was intentionally set at the building. Authorities confirmed that the blaze was contained and no injuries were reported. The incident is under active investigation.
Identification of Suspect and Ongoing Investigation
Pennsylvania State Police Colonel Christopher Paris identified the detained individual as Cody Balmer, 38, of Harrisburg. During a Sunday afternoon press briefing, Colonel Paris stressed that the investigation remains ongoing.
Forthcoming Charges: Terrorism and Attempted Homicide Among Allegations
Dauphin County District Attorney Francis Chardo stated that the anticipated charges will encompass attempted homicide, terrorism, attempted arson, and aggravated assault. These serious charges reflect the gravity of the alleged offenses.
Details of the Incident
According to authorities, the suspect scaled a perimeter fence and forcefully entered the governor’s residence prior to igniting the fire.
The incident occurred overnight on the first night of Passover, a Jewish holiday which Governor Shapiro and his family had observed at the governor’s official residence in Harrisburg, the state capital. State police issued a statement indicating that while the investigation is in progress, they are prepared to confirm that the event was an act of arson.
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Governor Shapiro’s Statement and Family’s Safety
Governor Shapiro issued a statement noting that he and his family were awakened around 2:00 AM by Pennsylvania State Police officers knocking at the door after the fire erupted. Shapiro, often mentioned as a potential Democratic presidential candidate in 2028, provided this account.
The Harrisburg Bureau of Fire responded to the scene, and while firefighters worked to extinguish the flames, law enforcement safely evacuated Governor Shapiro and his family from the residence, according to the governor.
Damage Assessment and Aftermath
Officials reported that the fire caused “significant damage” to a section of the residence before it was suppressed.
In his statement, Governor Shapiro expressed gratitude that no injuries occurred and that the fire was put out.
Police indicated that Governor Shapiro and his family were located in a separate section of the residence during the incident.
Continued Police Presence and Investigation at the Scene
On Sunday, a police presence remained at the scene. Yellow警示 tape cordoned off an alleyway as investigators assessed the interior damage. An officer was seen leading a canine unit outside an iron security fence. Subsequently, investigators used a saw to remove a section from the top of the fence on the south side of the residence, which was then wrapped in plastic and removed by vehicle.
Governor’s Residence and Historical Context
Governor Shapiro divides his time between the governor’s mansion, which has served as the official residence for governors since the 1960s, and his home in Abington, approximately 100 miles (160 km) east of Harrisburg. On Saturday, he shared a photograph on social media of his family’s Passover Seder table at the mansion.
Reactions from Former Governors
Mark Schweiker’s Condemnation
Former Pennsylvania Governor Mark Schweiker, a Republican, described the incident as a “despicable act of cowardice” and expressed his hope that Pennsylvanians would join him and his wife in offering prayers for the Shapiro family.
Tom Ridge Expresses Shock and Concern
Another former Republican Governor, Tom Ridge, stated that images of the damage to the residence, where he lived with his family for eight years, were “heartbreaking.” He also characterized the attack on the official residence as shocking.
“Those responsible for this attack – against both the Shapiro family and the Commonwealth – must be held accountable,” Ridge asserted.
Multi-agency Investigation Underway
State police affirmed that they are heading a multi-agency investigation into the fire incident. Further details are expected to emerge as the investigation progresses.