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Arson Attack on Pennsylvania Governor’s Residence Sparks Hate Crime Investigation

Gov. Josh Shapiro calls for bipartisan condemnation and announces a security review after the suspect cited grievances over Israel-Palestine policies.

Overview

  • Cody Balmer, the suspect in the arson attack, remains in custody facing eight charges, including attempted murder and terrorism.
  • Investigators are determining whether the attack was motivated by antisemitic or political bias, as Balmer cited grievances over perceived injustices to Palestinians.
  • Gov. Josh Shapiro and his family were safely evacuated from the residence during the fire, which caused millions of dollars in damage.
  • Shapiro has announced an independent review of security protocols after the suspect bypassed multiple security measures to carry out the attack.
  • While Shapiro has refrained from labeling the attack as a hate crime, he has urged leaders across the political spectrum to denounce such violence unequivocally.