Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro and his family were forced to evacuate their residence in the middle of the night during Passover due to an alleged arson attack. The incident, where an arsonist set fire to the governor’s residence in Harrisburg, prompted a swift response from authorities. Fortunately, no injuries were reported as the family, including their pets and another family, were safely evacuated while firefighters tackled the flames.

The suspect, identified as 38-year-old Cody Balmer from Harrisburg, was later arrested and is now facing serious charges including attempted murder, terrorism, aggravated arson, and aggravated assault. Governor Shapiro expressed gratitude towards law enforcement and first responders for their quick action in ensuring their safety during the harrowing event.

The motive behind the arson attack remains unknown as investigations continue. Notably, the suspect allegedly breached the property, set it ablaze with homemade incendiary devices, and managed to escape before being apprehended. Prior to the incident, Governor Shapiro had shared a photo of their Passover celebration, highlighting the stark contrast to the turmoil that followed.

This alarming incident serves as a reminder of the risks faced by public figures and the crucial role of emergency responders in safeguarding communities. Governor Shapiro’s resilience and the swift response by authorities underscore the importance of security measures in protecting public officials and their families.