The district attorney in Dauphin County, Pennsylvania, is currently evaluating whether religious or political bias played a role in a recent incident involving the state’s governor, Josh Shapiro. The suspect, Cody Balmer, allegedly set fire to the governor’s official residence. Reports suggest Balmer expressed “hatred” towards Shapiro, who is Jewish, according to police statements in the arrest affidavit.
On Sunday, Balmer reportedly broke into the residence in Harrisburg late at night. He set two gasoline-filled beer bottles alight, causing extensive damage but fortunately resulting in no injuries. When questioned about the incident, Dauphin County District Attorney Fran Chardo mentioned, “We’re continuing to look at that and how long the animus had existed in his mind.” Investigations are ongoing to understand the reasons behind Balmer’s actions.
The situation took an unexpected turn when Balmer called 911 shortly after the fire, stating that Governor Shapiro “needs to know” his disapproval of plans concerning the Palestinian people. In his call, Balmer also accused Shapiro of targeting his family, mentioning his daughters and making unsubstantiated claims of Shapiro’s involvement in the death of his friends. Balmer did not mention Israel or Gaza during the call but expressed weariness in his efforts to maintain peace. He emphasized his desire to support his children without resorting to “extremes.”
Governor Shapiro has been vocal against Israeli actions in Gaza but has also supported Israel’s right to defend itself against Hamas. His office has refrained from commenting on the incident, leaving it to law enforcement to determine the motive behind Balmer’s actions. Chardo warned against using violence to resolve religious or political conflicts, noting that the fire only heightened the severity of the crime.
Authorities are scrutinizing Balmer’s electronic devices, hoping to discover any references to Shapiro, Israel, or Gaza. While Chardo hasn’t confirmed a bias motive, he indicated it could influence sentencing. Regardless, Balmer faces serious charges of attempted homicide, arson, assault, and burglary, which already carry significant penalties.
Balmer’s family has described him as having a history of mental illness, although Balmer himself denies this claim. Before surrendering voluntarily, he had approached local law enforcement in Penbrook but was not detained, as officers were unaware of his connection to the fire. He later confessed to state police, more than two miles from his residence.
Public defenders may request a delay for Balmer’s preliminary hearing to assess his mental competency for standing trial. While Balmer insists on his mental stability, his legal team’s consideration of a competency evaluation reflects concerns over his ability to assist in his defense.
Increasing safety measures, state police announced they have hired an external consultant to assess security protocols following the incident. The review aims to evaluate how Balmer reportedly breached the governor’s residence, where he navigated over a security fence and ignited fires in rooms the governor’s family had used for a Passover celebration. State troopers safely evacuated the family around 2 a.m. as the fire caused significant financial damage.