One Year After Arson Attack, Shapiro Reflects on Resilience

Governor Josh Shapiro and First Lady Lori Shapiro marked one year since the arson attack on the governor’s residence with an interfaith roundtable in Harrisburg on Monday. The event focused on themes of resilience, restoration, and enhanced security measures implemented following the incident.

Roundtable Held in Restored Rooms

The roundtable took place in the same rooms that sustained damage during the attack and have since been fully restored. Governor Shapiro and community leaders reflected on the importance of faith and unity in moving forward.

Condemnation of Political Violence

Governor Shapiro strongly condemned political violence, stating, “Political violence has no place in our society, no matter who it is targeting and no matter who is the aggressor in that case.” He emphasized the importance of rejecting such acts and upholding peaceful discourse.

Impact on Family and Healing Through Support

The governor shared how the outpouring of prayers and support from across Pennsylvania and the nation played a crucial role in his family’s healing process. “What has been so important to us and so healing to us, has been the prayers and the offering of strength and words of healing that we have received from all across Pennsylvania all across this country,” Shapiro said.

Details of the April 2023 Attack

The arson attack occurred on April 13, 2023, shortly after the Shapiro family hosted a Passover Seder. Cody Balmer allegedly scaled a fence, broke a window with a sledgehammer, and threw Molotov cocktails, igniting a fire while the family was inside.

Balmer's Sentencing

Balmer pleaded guilty to attempted murder and 22 counts of arson, among other charges, and was sentenced to 25 to 50 years in prison.

Balancing Public Service and Family Safety

Governor Shapiro spoke candidly about the emotional toll the incident took on his family, particularly the conflict between his commitment to public service and his desire to protect his children. “I think the hardest thing for me emotionally…is this conflict between a father’s desire to always protect your children and doing a job I love that…has created a tension there,” he explained.

Commitment to Continued Service

Despite the risks, the Shapiro family remains dedicated to public service. “We will not let them win and the way you let them win is exiting the stage out of fear. We are not fearful we are determined to keep doing this work and we’re all in as a family together on that,” Shapiro affirmed.

Security Upgrades and Restoration Costs

The restoration and security enhancements at the governor’s residence totaled approximately $40 million. These improvements include a 10-foot perimeter barrier, enhanced surveillance systems, bulletproof windows, and a state-of-the-art fire suppression system.

A Display of Remembrance

A display now features a photograph of the aftermath of the attack, along with charred tableware and a quote from Governor Shapiro: “Do the hard work of bringing people together.”

Feeling Safe and Grateful

Governor Shapiro expressed his confidence in the security measures, stating, “I feel absolutely safe here.” He also expressed gratitude to the residence staff, the construction crew, and the Pennsylvania State Police.

$11 Million in Security Grants Announced

The Shapiro administration announced nearly $11 million in grant funding for nonprofit and faith-based organizations to bolster their security and protect against hate-based attacks. This funding aims to help these organizations safeguard their facilities and communities.

Passover Commemoration

The roundtable was held on the first day of Passover, and Governor Shapiro shared, “We’re all really excited to be here tonight together to celebrate Passover.”