A Pennsylvania judge has denied bail for Cody Balmer, 38, who is accused of setting fire to the Governor’s Residence in Harrisburg, where Governor Josh Shapiro and his family were inside. Balmer faces several serious charges, including attempted homicide, terrorism, and arson, after allegedly using Molotov cocktails to ignite the fire early on April 13, 2025. Authorities also claim that he intended to assault Governor Shapiro with a sledgehammer if they had crossed paths.
The attack occurred during the first night of Passover, but fortunately, the Shapiro family was able to evacuate the residence safely, and no one was injured. The fire caused significant damage to the mansion, with early estimates suggesting millions of dollars in losses.
Balmer, who reportedly harbored deep hatred for the governor, later turned himself in to police. His mother has stated that he was experiencing mental health issues and had not been taking his medication at the time of the incident.
Balmer has been held without bail, and his preliminary hearing is set for April 23, 2025. The case has raised concerns about the safety of elected officials, with authorities vowing to thoroughly investigate the incident.
