Security Failures Probed After Arson Attack on Pennsylvania Governor's Residence; Suspect's Motive Includes Hatred Towards Shapiro

Key Developments

• Cody Balmer set fire to Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro's official residence on April 14, 2025.
• Attack involved scaling a fence, smashing windows, and igniting Molotov cocktails while Governor Shapiro and his family were asleep.
• Attack motivated by hatred towards Governor Shapiro, possibly linked to his Jewish faith and stance on Israel's Gaza war, referencing Palestinians in a 911 call.
• Balmer charged with attempted homicide, terrorism, and arson.
• Balmer is being evaluated for competency to stand trial.
• The attack caused millions of dollars in damage.
• Balmer used gasoline and beer bottles to create Molotov cocktails.
• Balmer planned to hit Governor Shapiro with a small sledgehammer if encountered.
• Governor Shapiro was awakened by his state police detail around 2 a.m. on Sunday.
• The intruder was on the grounds for only a matter of minutes before being spotted on security cameras.
• The intruder faced little resistance, suggesting multiple security failures according to a former FBI agent.
• Pennsylvania State Police will hire an outside expert to review the security breach and assess the need for added security.