A preliminary hearing for Cody Balmer, accused of setting fire to the Harrisburg home of Governor Josh Shapiro, has been postponed to May 28. Balmer, 38, faces charges including arson and attempted murder after allegedly breaking into the governor's residence on April 13 and starting a fire using gasoline-filled bottles. Balmer admitted to the attack, expressing hatred for Governor Shapiro and claiming he would have attacked him with a sledgehammer if given the chance.
In a 911 call made shortly after the incident, Balmer appeared to apologize and confess to the attack, citing grievances against Governor Shapiro's policies. ABC News reports that Balmer claimed he was not hiding and confessed to his actions during the call. The fire caused damage to the dining room, but Governor Shapiro and his family, who were present at the time, were safely evacuated.
He was denied bail at his arraignment, with the judge citing concerns for community safety. Prosecutors are considering additional charges, including hate crimes, but have not yet pursued them. Balmer has not yet entered a plea and is scheduled to appear in court on April 23.