Arson attack targets Pennsylvania governor’s residence during Passover, investigation underway
Soror Shaiza | Apr 14, 2025, 01:19 IST
An overnight fire at Governor Josh Shapiro’s official residence has been confirmed as arson by state police. The blaze broke out during Passover while the Shapiro family was inside, prompting an emergency evacuation. Though no injuries were reported, significant damage was done to part of the riverfront mansion. The case has triggered both a police investigation and bipartisan condemnation.
Governor and family evacuated safely after fire breaks out overnight
Early Sunday morning, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro and his family were awakened by state police officers as a fire broke out in the governor’s official residence in Harrisburg. The incident occurred around 2 a.m. on the first night of Passover, which the Shapiros were celebrating at the mansion.Though no one was injured, state police confirmed the fire caused a “significant amount of damage” to a portion of the residence. Authorities said the fire was set intentionally and are treating it as an arson case. The family had been sleeping in a different section of the building when the fire began.In a statement, Shapiro thanked first responders, adding, “Thank God no one was injured and the fire was extinguished.”
Investigation intensifies as damage to historic mansion assessed
Firefighters from the Harrisburg Bureau of Fire responded to the call, while police quickly evacuated the governor’s family. On Sunday, the aftermath was visible: charred remnants around the residence’s south side, shattered glass, and a damaged entertainment room often used for hosting guests and displaying artwork.Investigators cordoned off the area, including a section of an iron security fence that was cut, wrapped in plastic, and taken in for evidence. The presence of a police dog and active forensics suggested a meticulous search for clues. Authorities have offered a $10,000 reward for information leading to an arrest and conviction.The mansion has served as the official residence of Pennsylvania governors since the 1960s. Shapiro splits his time between it and his family home in Abington, approximately 100 miles away.
Political figures from both parties condemn the attack
The attack sparked immediate reactions across Pennsylvania’s political spectrum. Former Republican Governor Mark Schweiker called it a “despicable act of cowardice,” while Tom Ridge, another Republican and former Homeland Security Secretary, described the damage as “heartbreaking” and urged accountability.“Whoever is responsible for this attack — to both the Shapiro family and our Commonwealth — must be held to account,” Ridge said.The motive for the arson remains unclear, and state police are leading the investigation. Shapiro had shared a photo of the family’s Passover Seder table on social media just hours before the fire, adding an especially personal layer to what officials are treating as a deliberate and serious act.