WATCH: Governor Josh Shapiro gets emotional as he responds to arson attack on his home

A quiet Passover night turned terrifying for Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro and his family when an arsonist set fire to the governor’s mansion in Harrisburg at around 2 a.m. on Sunday. The blaze, now confirmed as a deliberate act, forced a frantic evacuation as state police pounded on the door to rouse the sleeping family, ensuring their safety alongside Capitol Police. Firefighters from the Harrisburg Bureau of Fire battled the flames, preventing a greater tragedy, though the residence suffered extensive damage.

Governor Shapiro, speaking hours later, expressed profound relief. “Thank God no one was hurt,” he posted on X, praising the law enforcement and first responders who “ran toward danger” to protect his family. “Lori and I are eternally grateful.” The attack came shortly after the Shapiros marked the start of Passover, adding a poignant layer to the ordeal.

Authorities swiftly identified and arrested 38-year-old Cody Balmer as the suspect. State Police Lt. Col. George Bivens revealed that Balmer climbed a fence to access the property, using homemade firebombs to ignite the mansion while dodging troopers on patrol. He now faces charges of attempted murder, terrorism, aggravated arson, and assault, with the investigation continuing to uncover his motives.

The incident has sparked outrage across Pennsylvania and beyond. Shapiro, visibly shaken, condemned the act as part of a troubling wave of violence. “It doesn’t matter who it’s aimed at: this has to stop,” he said at a press conference. Leaders from both parties echoed his call, with Pennsylvania Republican Party Chairman Greg Rothman demanding justice and national governors’ groups decrying attacks on public officials.

The fact that someone was able to get this close to his residence is particularly concerning, no matter what you think about Josh Shapiro and his politics.