Arsonist sets fire to Pennsylvania governor’s mansion with Shapiro family inside

An arson investigation is underway following an overnight fire at the governor’s residence in Pennsylvania, according to the Pennsylvania State Police. The incident occurred around 2 a.m. ET while Gov. Josh Shapiro and his family were inside the residence. Fortunately, they were evacuated safely and no injuries were reported.

In a statement, Gov. Shapiro expressed gratitude that no one was harmed and the fire was extinguished. The state police confirmed that the fire caused significant damage to part of the residence and have classified it as an act of arson.

Authorities are now working to identify a suspect and motive behind the attack. A senior law enforcement official revealed that investigators are looking into whether the arson could be related to Gov. Shapiro being Jewish and the fire occurring on the first night of Passover.

Just hours before the fire, Gov. Shapiro had shared a photo of his family’s Passover Seder table on social media, extending holiday wishes to others celebrating. The Pennsylvania State Police is offering a reward of up to $10,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible for the arson.

Gov. Shapiro, who was elected governor in 2022, previously served as the state’s attorney general. He was considered as a potential vice presidential candidate for the 2024 Democratic ticket before Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz was chosen instead.

The investigation into the arson attack at the governor’s residence is ongoing, with authorities determined to bring those responsible to justice.