'Terrorist' accused of arson attack on governor's home

A suspected terrorist has been accused of setting alight a Pennsylvania governor’s mansion on Saturday evening, forcing his family and other guests to flee the residence.

- KATIE HAWKINSON JAMES LIDDELL

Cody Balmer was detained in connection with the alleged “targeted” attack on Josh Shapiro’s home, just hours after he and his family celebrated the Jewish holiday of Passover together. Now, new details, including a possible motive for the attack, have been revealed in unsealed court documents. Mr Balmer held a deep hatred for Mr Shapiro and told officers if the governor had been home when the attack occurred, he would “beat him with a hammer”, according to reports. The documents also reveal that Mr Balmer used his ex-girlfriend to negotiate his surrender to the police.

Police allege Mr Balmer, who is accused of throwing beer bottles full of petrol into the home, broke into the southern wing of the residence, entered a room often used to entertain crowds and display art, and set a fire using a homemade incendiary device. The fire left significant damage to the room, charring walls, tables, buffet serving dishes, plates and a piano. Images also show window panes and brick around doors and windows were blackened.