PA Governor Shapiro’s Residence Attacked With Molotov Cocktails, Suspect Admits Hate Motive

HARRISBURG, Pa. — April 13, 2025: In the early hours of Saturday morning, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro’s official residence in Harrisburg became the target of a violent arson attack.

According to police reports and court documents, the suspect — identified as Cody Allen Balmer, 38, of Penbrook — admitted to “harboring hatred” toward Governor Shapiro and intended to physically harm him.

Molotov Attack While Family Celebrated Passover

Around 2:00 a.m. ET, while Shapiro, his family, and guests were celebrating Passover inside the mansion, Balmer scaled a seven-foot security fence, broke multiple windows, and launched Molotov cocktails into the building. The southern wing of the historic residence — including the dining and piano rooms — suffered substantial fire damage. Thankfully, no injuries were reported, as the family and guests were safely evacuated.

Governor Shapiro later condemned the act, calling it a “heinous act of political violence” and affirming his dedication to public service and religious freedom. In a statement shared by the Governor’s Office, Shapiro said, “Hate has no home in Pennsylvania, and we will never be intimidated by those who seek to harm us.”
▶️ Governor’s Office

Suspect’s Motive and Criminal Background

According to an affidavit obtained by POLITICO, Balmer told investigators that he had walked for over an hour to reach the Governor’s Mansion, carrying a hammer and homemade firebombs. He allegedly planned to assault Governor Shapiro and intentionally set the home ablaze.

Balmer, who has a documented history of mental illness — including schizophrenia and bipolar disorder — had reportedly stopped taking his prescribed medication in the days leading up to the attack, according to his mother. Court records also reveal a criminal past involving theft and forgery.

Social media activity linked to Balmer suggests he held anti-establishment views, identified as a “registered socialist,” and frequently reposted content from anarchist sources. These factors are now part of the ongoing investigation into his motive and potential affiliations.

Serious Charges: Terrorism, Attempted Homicide, and More

Balmer has been formally charged with:

• Attempted Homicide
• Terrorism
• Aggravated Arson
• Aggravated Assault
• Recklessly Endangering Another Person

He is currently being held at the Dauphin County Prison without bail. The Pennsylvania State Police and other federal agencies are collaborating on the case, as the incident may qualify as an act of domestic terrorism.
Pennsylvania State Police

Security and Political Implications

The arson attack has raised major concerns about the safety of public officials and increased threats of political violence. The Shapiro administration has already launched a comprehensive review of security protocols at the Governor’s Residence and other state properties.

The Governor’s Mansion, a historical building located on Front Street in Harrisburg, is a secure facility, but this breach raises questions about how Balmer was able to enter the premises undetected with incendiary devices.

Public Reaction and Political Response

Prominent Pennsylvania lawmakers and national figures have expressed solidarity with the Shapiro family and called for stronger safeguards against political violence. The incident echoes growing concerns about the safety of elected officials in the U.S., particularly after recent threats and attacks across different states.

According to the FBI, the number of reported domestic terrorism cases has risen dramatically over the past five years, with ideological and politically motivated violence posing serious threats to democracy.

Looking Ahead

As the investigation continues, Governor Shapiro’s office remains committed to transparency and resilience. Law enforcement agencies are urging citizens to report any suspicious behavior and reminding the public of the importance of civic discourse over extremism.

Citizens with information related to the case are encouraged to contact the Pennsylvania State Police at 717-783-5599 or submit a tip through CrimeWatch PA.

This article has been carefully fact-checked by our editorial team to ensure accuracy and eliminate any misleading information. We are committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity in our content.