Watch: Aftermath of arson attack at Pennsylvania governor's mansion as police arrest suspect

Charred walls, broken windows, and the smouldering remains of Pennsylvania’s governor’s mansion can be seen in dramatic aftermath footage captured hours after a suspected arsonist set fire to the residence while governor Josh Shapiro and his family were asleep inside.

The fire broke out around 2:00 am on Sunday in a separate section of the Georgian-style mansion in Harrisburg. Video from the scene shows scorched brickwork, shattered glass, and heavy fire damage on one side of the building.

The Pennsylvania Police arrested 38-year-old Cody Balmer, who allegedly scaled a fence and used homemade incendiary devices to start the blaze. He faces multiple charges, including attempted murder and terrorism.

This is what’s left of the Pennsylvania Governor’s mansion after a psycho arsonist broke in and set it ablaze with Josh Shapiro and his entire family sleeping inside at 2 am this morning.pic.twitter.com/hPssPCLyxs

— Marina Medvin 🇺🇸 (@MarinaMedvin) April 14, 2025

Also read: Man arrested for arson, terrorism at Pennsylvania governor Josh Shapiro’s residence


Governor Shapiro, a potential Democratic vice-presidential pick, said in a statement, “Thank God no one was injured and the fire was extinguished,” adding that a state trooper helped evacuate his family in time.

Speaking from outside the damaged home, Shapiro warned about the rise in political violence: “It is not okay, and it has to stop.”

Authorities say the investigation is ongoing, and a criminal complaint is being prepared.