Arson Suspect Attacks Governor Shapiro's Residence, References Palestine

Cody Balmer, who was already out on bail for a prior assault charge, has been arrested and charged with arson, attempted homicide, and terrorism after allegedly firebombing the Pennsylvania Governor’s Residence while Gov. Josh Shapiro and his family were inside. According to court documents and a search warrant, Balmer confessed to the attack, referencing opposition to Shapiro's stance on Palestine as his motivation, and explicitly cited the governor's plans for the Palestinian people in his 911 call. Balmer’s ex-girlfriend and mother of his children confirmed to police that he admitted to carrying out the attack and wanted her to turn him in. All occupants escaped unharmed, and authorities are investigating whether ethnic intimidation or hate crime charges should be added. The incident has prompted reviews of security protocols at the governor’s residence, and Gov. Shapiro called for an end to politically-motivated violence, emphasizing that such actions have no place in society. Balmer denied having mental health or substance abuse issues during his court appearance, though his parents reportedly indicated otherwise.