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Cody Balmer Pleads Guilty in Firebombing of Pa. Governor’s Residence, Gets 25–50 Years

Prosecutors say he targeted the residence over Gov. Josh Shapiro’s views on the Gaza war.

Cody Balmer, accused of setting a fire at Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro's official residence, leaves Dauphin County Courthouse on Tuesday, Oct. 14, 2025 in Harrisburg, Pa. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
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Cody Balmer, 38, of Harrisburg, walks into the Dauphin County Courthouse prior to an 8:30 a.m. plea court hearing on Oct. 14, 2025. Balmer is accused of setting fire to Governor Shapiro's residence on April 13, 2025. (WHP)
Cody Balmer, accused of setting a fire at Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro's official residence arrives at Dauphin County Courthouse on Tuesday, Oct. 14, 2025 in Harrisburg, Pa. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)

Overview

  • He entered guilty pleas in Dauphin County Court to the attempted murder of Gov. Josh Shapiro, terrorism, aggravated arson, burglary, and dozens of related counts.
  • He was sentenced to 25 to 50 years in state prison, with the district attorney saying he will not be parole-eligible until April 13, 2050.
  • Video shown in court captured him throwing Molotov cocktails, breaking windows, and attempting to push through doors, and a 911 call featured his stated grievance over Gaza.
  • Shapiro, family members, state troopers, and others were inside during the pre-dawn attack after a Passover Seder, and no injuries were reported.
  • Repairs and security enhancements to the state-owned mansion have run into the multi-million-dollar range, including taller fencing, tree removal, new guard booths, and increased patrols.