The man charged with setting fire to Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro’s official residence is now believed to have been driven by personal retaliation against the state, following the court-ordered auction of his foreclosed home.

Authorities say Cody Balmer, 38, deliberately targeted the governor’s mansion just days after his Canby Street property in Harrisburg was sold off in a sheriff’s sale authorized by the state — a move that may have ignited his rage and pushed him to commit one of the most disturbing acts of political violence in recent Pennsylvania history.

Read more: Who Is Cody Balmer? Harrisburg Man Charged in Arson Attack on Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro's Home

Was Cody Balmer 'Upset' With Gov Josh Shapiro Over Property Seizure
Was Cody Balmer 'Upset' With Gov Josh Shapiro Over Property Seizure

The Fire That Shocked the State

At approximately 2:00 AM on Sunday, April 14, Pennsylvania State Police responded to a blaze at the Governor’s Mansion in Harrisburg. Officers had been alerted to a security breach moments before, but by the time they reached the main residence, flames had already spread through parts of the structure.

Governor Shapiro and his family were asleep inside the home when the attack occurred. Thanks to the swift response of state troopers, the family was safely evacuated. No injuries were reported, but the fire caused extensive damage to portions of the property, according to state officials.

The suspect, identified as Cody Balmer, was arrested in the Harrisburg area shortly after the incident. Police say he was in possession of a homemade incendiary device and had clearly intended to cause destruction.

The Suspected Motive: A Foreclosure and a Sheriff’s Sale

New court documents obtained by the media reveal that Balmer’s property — a modest home on Canby Street — had recently been seized and slated for auction following a mortgage foreclosure.

The writ of execution, issued by the Dauphin County Court of Common Pleas, shows that the sale was scheduled to take place in the Commissioners Hearing Room of the Dauphin County Administration Building. The action was initiated by Lakeview Loan Servicing, LLC, the lender listed in the foreclosure case.

Legal notices issued as part of the proceedings outlined the terms of the auction and the legal right of the sheriff’s office to proceed unless otherwise ordered by the court.

Retaliation, Not Random

Investigators believe that Balmer viewed Governor Shapiro — the state’s chief executive — as symbolically responsible for the loss of his home. While there is no evidence that the governor had any personal role in the foreclosure process, Balmer may have seen the state’s involvement in authorizing and facilitating the sale as a personal betrayal.

“This was not a random act. It was fueled by resentment, possibly mental instability, and a deeply misguided sense of justice,” a law enforcement source told reporters.

Serious Charges Filed

Dauphin County District Attorney Francis Chardo announced that Balmer faces a wide array of serious felony charges, including:

  • Attempted Murder

  • Aggravated Arson

  • Terrorism

  • Aggravated Assault on a Public Official

  • Possession of Explosive Devices

Due to the politically symbolic target and the use of an incendiary weapon, state officials have not ruled out federal terrorism charges. The FBI and ATF are assisting in the investigation.

Who Is Cody Balmer?

Why Did Cody Balmer Set Fire to Governor Josh Shapiro’s Home?
Gov Josh Shapiro house fire suspect, Cody Balmer

Little is publicly known about Balmer’s background. He is described by neighbors as a quiet but increasingly isolated figure. Public records show financial difficulties in recent years, culminating in the foreclosure of his home.

There is no indication — so far — that Balmer is affiliated with any known extremist group. However, his actions fit a growing pattern of individuals lashing out violently over personal grievances, sometimes targeting public officials or institutions.

Psychological profiling is underway as authorities examine Balmer’s digital history, communications, and potential signs of premeditated intent.

Governor Shapiro Speaks Out

Governor Shapiro, who has emerged as a rising national figure in the Democratic Party, thanked first responders and addressed the public in a brief statement on social media:

“We were awakened in the middle of the night by state troopers at our door. Thanks to them, Lori and I and our kids are safe. Their bravery protected our family, and we will forever be grateful.”

Broader Implications

This incident comes at a time when threats against elected officials are on the rise across the U.S. Law enforcement experts say the attack underscores the risks posed by “lone actor” domestic threats — individuals who feel wronged and radicalize through personal grievances, rather than ideology.

Security measures at the Pennsylvania Governor’s Residence and other state properties have since been reviewed and enhanced. Officials have also increased patrols around other public officials' homes as a precaution.

$10,000 Reward and Ongoing Investigation

The Pennsylvania State Police are continuing the investigation and have offered a $10,000 reward for information leading to further arrests or evidence related to the case.

Anyone with tips is urged to contact the PSP tip line immediately.