Cody Allen Balmer, a 38-year-old from Penbrook, Pennsylvania, has been charged with attempted murder, terrorism, aggravated arson, and aggravated assault following an arson attack on Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro’s residence on April 13, 2025. Balmer allegedly scaled a security fence, broke windows, and threw Molotov cocktails into the mansion while the governor and his family were inside celebrating Passover. No injuries were reported, but the fire caused significant damage to the property. Balmer later turned himself in, confessing to harboring hatred toward Shapiro and intending to assault him with a hammer had he been present .
Balmer’s mother stated that he suffers from schizophrenia and bipolar disorder and had stopped taking his medication prior to the incident. He has a history of criminal charges, including a 2023 assault case, and financial struggles. Governor Shapiro condemned the attack and called for unity against rising political violence .
