Pennsylvania Governor's Residence Arson Suspect Seeks Court Delay for Mental Health Treatment

Cody Balmer, the man accused of attempting to burn down Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro's official residence, is seeking to delay his next court hearing due to ongoing mental health treatment. The hearing was initially set to determine if prosecutors have sufficient evidence to proceed to trial on charges including attempted homicide and arson. Balmer is being held without bail at the state prison in Waymart, which houses the only mental health unit for men in Pennsylvania. The fire caused millions in damages and forced the governor and his family to evacuate during the Jewish holiday of Passover. Balmer reportedly intended to attack Governor Shapiro with a hammer if encountered and has expressed hatred toward him, while family members cite mental illness as a factor. Authorities and Balmer's defense agree the suspect must be mentally fit before the case moves forward, prompting the postponement of the hearing.