(WHTM) - Cody Balmer, the man accused of setting fire to Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro's residence in Harrisburg, arrived at court on Monday afternoon for arraignment.
Afterward, Balmer was taken to Dauphin County Prison, where his bail was denied by Magisterial District Judge Dale Klein. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for April 23.
Balmer had been arrested on Sunday but was hospitalized for a medical issue officials said was unrelated to the fire. He is facing charges including attempted homicide and aggravated arson.
Balmer is accused of breaking into the residence and starting the fire before escaping through a door. After turning himself in to police, Balmer was taken to an area hospital for an unrelated medical event and is scheduled to be arraigned on Monday night.
Balmer’s mother told the Associated Press that her son has bipolar disorder and schizophrenia and that she sought help for him, but “nobody would help.”
Shapiro and his family were sleeping inside the residence after celebrating the first night of Passover when State Police awoke them around 2 a.m. on Sunday with the fire burning in a separate area of the residence. Everyone inside was able to evacuate safely.
Harrisburg Fire Chief Brian Enterline says the residence, which recently celebrated 50 years, likely sustained millions of dollars worth of damage.
Governor Josh Shapiro and the Pennsylvania State Police provide an update on the act of arson that took place at the Governor's Residence.Governor Josh Shapiro and the Pennsylvania State Police provide an update on the act of arson that took place at the Governor's Residence.Governor Josh Shapiro and the Pennsylvania State Police provide an update on the act of arson that took place at the Governor's Residence.Governor Josh Shapiro and the Pennsylvania State Police provide an update on the act of arson that took place at the Governor's Residence.Governor Josh Shapiro and the Pennsylvania State Police provide an update on the act of arson that took place at the Governor's Residence.Charred wood trim and brick are visible at the Pennsylvania governor's official residence after a man was arrested in the alleged arson that forced Gov. Shapiro, his family and guests to flee in the middle of the night on the Jewish holiday of Passover, Sunday, Apr. 13, 2025, in Harrisburg, Pa. (AP Photo/Marc Levy)Shown is Pennsylvania governor's official residence in Harrisburg, Pa., Monday, April 14, 2025. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)
Artifacts inside the residence, which hosts art exhibits, were also damaged and will be evaluated by state museum officials.
