New surveillance video released Tuesday has revealed an arsonist’s attack on Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro’s mansion with Molotov cocktails in April, as the governor and his family slept. The video, shared by the Dauphin County District Attorney’s Office shortly after suspect Cody Balmer pleaded guilty to all charges including attempted murder, aggravated arson, burglary, and terrorism, provides detailed footage of the incident.
Balmer set the fire at around 2 a.m. on April 13 following Shapiro and his family’s celebration of the first night of the Jewish holiday of Passover. The governor and his family were asleep when the attack occurred, making the incident particularly disturbing. The video shows Balmer, 38, walking on the property and breaking one of the residence’s glass windows with a sledgehammer, officials said. He then threw a flaming Molotov cocktail inside, setting the mansion ablaze.
The footage also captures Balmer using the sledgehammer to break a second window and climb through to enter the residence, according to the video. Officials noted that Balmer struck multiple doors with the sledgehammer but was unable to break through. One of the doors led to where Shapiro’s family and guests slept. While still inside, Balmer is seen throwing a second Molotov cocktail into the dining area, igniting a second fire before exiting the residence through an exit door.
Authorities stated that Balmer admitted to harboring hatred towards Governor Shapiro and that he allegedly said he planned to attack Shapiro with his hammer if he found him in the mansion. This admission was made during his arrest, which followed the release of the video. Balmer was sentenced to 25 to 50 years in prison for his actions.
Following Balmer’s guilty plea, Shapiro addressed the public at a press conference, calling for