'Disgusting violence': JD Vance condemns arson attack at Pennsylvania governor's residence

US vice president and Ohio Senator JD Vance on Sunday reacted sharply to the arson attack on Pennsylvania governor Josh Shapiro’s official residence in Harrisburg, calling the incident “really disgusting violence.” In a post on X, Vance wrote, “Thanks be to God that governor Shapiro and his family were unharmed in this attack. Really disgusting violence, and I hope whoever did it is brought swiftly to justice.”

Thanks be to God that Governor Shapiro and his family were unharmed in this attack.

Really disgusting violence, and I hope whoever did it is brought swiftly to justice. https://t.co/U47C6mXvDP

— JD Vance (@JDVance) April 14, 2025

The early morning attack occurred around 2:00 am on Sunday when 38-year-old Cody Balmer allegedly scaled the fence of the Governor’s Residence and set fire to a section of the building using homemade incendiary devices, according to Pennsylvania State Police. Governor Shapiro, his wife Lori, and their four children were inside at the time but were safely evacuated by state troopers.

“No one was injured and the fire was extinguished,” Shapiro confirmed in a statement. “Thank God.” The Harrisburg Bureau of Fire responded quickly, and authorities say the blaze caused significant damage to part of the historic Georgian-style mansion.


Also read: Watch: Aftermath of arson attack at Pennsylvania governor’s mansion as police arrest suspect

Balmer was arrested and faces multiple charges, including attempted murder, terrorism, aggravated arson, and aggravated assault on a public official. District Attorney Fran Chardo said a criminal complaint is being finalized and confirmed that Balmer is in custody.

Standing outside the damaged residence later that day, Shapiro denounced the broader climate of hostility. “This kind of violence is becoming far too common in our society, and I don't give a damn if it's coming from one particular side or the other... it is not okay, and it has to stop,” he said.

Last night at about 2AM, my family and I woke up to bangs on the door from the Pennsylvania State Police after an arsonist set fire to the Governor’s Residence in Harrisburg.

The Harrisburg Bureau of Fire was on the scene and while they worked to put out the fire, we were…

— Governor Josh Shapiro (@GovernorShapiro) April 13, 2025

Shapiro, a Democrat elected in 2022 and once considered a potential 2024 vice-presidential contender, thanked law enforcement for their swift response. “Every day, we stand with the law enforcement and first responders who run towards danger to protect our communities. Last night, they did so for our family – and Lori and I are eternally grateful to them.”