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Cody Balmer, the suspect in the arson attack at Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro's residence, was denied bail on Monday (April 14). Balmer, 38, faces charges including attempted homicide, aggravated arson, and terrorism for allegedly breaking into the governor's residence and starting a fire with Molotov cocktails while the governor and his family were inside early Sunday morning.
CBS 21 reported, Balmer has a history of domestic violence allegations and financial struggles. He reportedly harbored hatred toward Governor Shapiro and admitted to police that he would have attacked Shapiro with a hammer if they had encountered each other. Balmer's mother told CBS News that her son is mentally ill and was off his medication at the time of the incident.
The fire caused significant damage to the historic governor's mansion in Harrisburg, though no injuries were reported as the family and staff were evacuated safely. NBC News reported that Balmer turned himself in to authorities after initially evading capture. Surveillance footage showed him breaking windows and deploying incendiary devices inside the residence.
Governor Shapiro condemned the attack, stating, "This kind of violence is not OK... and it has to stop." The investigation is ongoing, with the FBI offering federal resources to aid in the case. Balmer's next court date has not yet been scheduled, and he remains in custody as a potential danger to the community.