Arsonist Charged in Pennsylvania Governor’s Mansion Attack

Cody Balmer faces terrorism and attempted murder charges after firebombing Governor Josh Shapiro’s residence during Passover.

Cody Balmer, 38, is being held without bail after allegedly setting fire to Governor Josh Shapiro’s residence using Molotov cocktails early Sunday morning.
Governor Shapiro, his family, and guests were safely evacuated from the mansion, where they had been celebrating Passover hours earlier.
Balmer admitted to harboring hatred toward Shapiro and told investigators he would have attacked the governor with a hammer if encountered.
The attack has raised concerns about security failures, as Balmer evaded state troopers stationed at the residence and breached the property.
Balmer, who has a history of domestic violence and mental health challenges, was out on bail for a prior domestic assault case at the time of the attack.