Arson Attack Forces Governor’s Family From Passover Celebration
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro and his family were evacuated from the official governor’s residence early Sunday morning after what authorities are calling a deliberate arson attack. The fire broke out around 2 a.m. during the first night of Passover, which the governor and his family had been celebrating at their Harrisburg home just hours earlier.
“Last night at about 2 AM, 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,” Shapiro said in a statement. State police confirmed they are investigating the incident as arson and have offered a $10,000 reward for information leading to an arrest and conviction, according to The Associated Press.
No injuries were reported, though authorities said the fire caused “significant damage to a portion of the residence.” The investigation involves multiple agencies, with the Pennsylvania State Police taking the lead.
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A Night of Celebration Turns to Emergency
The timing of the attack—during Passover, one of Judaism’s most significant holidays—has raised concerns, though authorities have not yet suggested any specific motive. Shapiro, who is Jewish, had been celebrating the holiday with his family at the residence before the incident occurred.
The governor’s statement indicated that state police officers banged on their door to alert them to the danger after the fire was discovered. The Harrisburg Bureau of Fire was called to the scene and worked to extinguish the blaze while officers evacuated the governor and his family to safety.
“Thank God no one was injured and the fire was extinguished,” Shapiro said. “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 for keeping us safe.”
News: Gov. Josh Shapiro says an arsonist set fire to the Pennsylvania governor’s mansion early Sunday morning.
— Justin Sweitzer (@justin_sweitzer) April 13, 2025
There’s visible damage on at least one side of the building. pic.twitter.com/gtLChIHDzJ
Investigation Underway as Authorities Seek Tips
While the Pennsylvania State Police have confirmed the fire was deliberately set, they have released few details about how the arsonist gained access to the property or what evidence led them to determine it was intentional. The governor’s residence on North Front Street in Harrisburg is normally under security protection, raising questions about potential security failures.
A PSP Tips Facebook page reported that while the fire was “successfully extinguished, it caused a significant amount of damage to a portion of the residence,” as reported by York Daily Record. The state police remain on scene and have established a tip line for anyone with information about the incident.
Authorities are encouraging members of the public to call 1-800-4PA-TIPS (1-800-472-8477) with any information that might assist in the investigation. The substantial reward of $10,000 underscores the seriousness with which law enforcement is treating this attack on the governor’s residence.
Political Implications Amid Rising Tensions
Shapiro, a Democrat who has been mentioned as a potential presidential contender in 2028, has maintained a relatively moderate profile during his tenure as governor. The attack comes during a period of heightened political polarization nationally, though there is currently no indication that the arson was politically motivated.
Security for public officials has become an increasing concern across the United States in recent years. This incident follows several high-profile threats and attacks targeting elected officials and government buildings across the country, raising questions about the security measures in place at governors’ residences.
The Pennsylvania Governor’s Residence, a three-story brick mansion built in 1968, serves as both the official residence and a site for state functions and celebrations. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and has hosted countless dignitaries and events throughout its history.
Community Response and Support
As news of the attack spread Sunday morning, officials from both political parties expressed concern and support for the governor and his family. Security has reportedly been enhanced at the residence and at other state government buildings as a precautionary measure.
The fire occurred at a time when many Jewish families across Pennsylvania and around the world were gathering to celebrate Passover, adding a particularly troubling dimension to the incident. Jewish community organizations across the state have expressed solidarity with the governor.
Governor Shapiro has continued with his duties despite the attack, according to his office, though his public schedule for the coming days may be adjusted as the investigation proceeds and as repairs to the residence are assessed.
State police have promised to keep the public updated as the investigation progresses, though they caution that some details may be withheld to protect the integrity of their inquiry and eventual prosecution of those responsible.
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