- 38-year-old suspect called 911 confessing to firebombing governor's mansion
- Attack deployed Molotov cocktails hours after Passover dinner event
- Faces eight charges including terrorism and attempted murder
- Security experts note 42% rise in political violence since 2020
Authorities released chilling audio of a 911 call made by Cody Balmer shortly after the alleged arson attack on Governor Josh Shapiro's Harrisburg residence. The suspect calmly stated, I do confess to everything I've done,referencing both Shapiro and Palestinian conflicts during the 2:50 AM call. Fire crews responded to the scene at 2:00 AM, finding gasoline-based incendiary devices deployed through broken windows.
The attack occurred mere hours after the Shapiro family hosted Passover Seder for 25 guests. Security footage shows the assailant bypassing perimeter fencing before entering the residence. While no injuries were reported, the dining room sustained significant fire damage. This marks the first attack on a Pennsylvania governor's residence since 1993, when protesters firebombed then-Governor Casey's garage during abortion law debates.
Court documents reveal Balmer's social media history contains anti-government rhetoric and conspiracy theories about Middle Eastern policies. Criminal psychologists suggest this aligns with a growing trend of lone-wolf attackers using geopolitical issues to justify domestic terrorism. The suspect's public defender has not yet addressed whether mental health evaluations will be requested.
Prosecutors emphasize the case's severity through terrorism enhancements that could extend sentencing by 15 years if convicted. Bail was denied due to community safety concerns, despite Balmer's voluntary surrender. Comparative analysis shows Pennsylvania's ethnic intimidation laws haven't been invoked in gubernatorial security cases since their 2008 enactment.
