Pennsylvania Governor Shapiro’s Residence Evacuated Due to Suspected Arson, Authorities Report

April 13, 2025 TruthUSA

“My family and I were jolted awake by knocks on the door from the Pennsylvania State Police,” the governor stated.

Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro reported that the governor’s mansion was engulfed in flames due to what police are investigating as an “act of arson,” which forced the governor and his family to evacuate.

“Late last night around 2 AM, my family and I were woken up by knocks at the door from the Pennsylvania State Police after an arsonist ignited a fire at the Governor’s Residence in Harrisburg,” Shapiro shared in a statement posted on social media Sunday.

The governor mentioned that fire crews arrived promptly to combat the blaze, while the Pennsylvania State Police ensured the safety of him and his family.

“I’m thankful that no one was hurt and the fire was brought under control,” Shapiro expressed. “Each day, we support the law enforcement and first responders who courageously confront danger to safeguard our communities.”

While he did not divulge additional information about the event, the governor remarked that he and his wife “are forever appreciative” to the police for their protection.

Shapiro and his spouse are parents to four children—Sophia, Jonah, Max, and Reuben. It is uncertain how many of their children were present during the incident.

Prior to the incident, the Democratic governor, who is of Jewish descent, shared on social media that he and his family were observing Passover.

“From the Shapiro family’s Seder table to yours, happy Passover and Chag Pesach Sameach!” he posted on social media platform X on Sunday evening.

“Even though the fire was put out successfully, it inflicted considerable damage to a section of the residence,” Pennsylvania State Police stated. “At this time, while the investigation continues, the State Police can confirm that this was indeed an act of arson.”

According to state police, Shapiro and his family were in a different area of the mansion during the fire, and fortunately, no one was injured.

Law enforcement did not share any further information regarding the alleged arson, including any suspects or possible motives.

“No further details will be disclosed at this time,” authorities stated. “However, this investigation is progressing rapidly, and information will be shared as appropriate.”

On Sunday, reporters on-site noted visible fire damage on the south side of the residence, mostly affecting a large room typically used for hosting events and displaying art. A police presence remained in the area early Sunday afternoon, with yellow tape enclosing an alleyway as an officer walked a dog outside an iron security fence.

The investigation is being led by state police, who have offered a reward of up to $10,000 for information leading to an arrest and conviction.

During the 2024 presidential campaign, there was considerable speculation that Shapiro was a potential candidate for Democratic presidential nominee and former Vice President Kamala Harris’s running mate. Ultimately, she selected Minnesota Governor Tim Walz.

As governor, Shapiro was also engaged in providing updates following the assassination attempt on then-presidential candidate Donald Trump at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, in July 2024. At one moment, Shapiro referred to Corey Comperatore, who was fatally shot at the rally, as “a hero” for attempting to protect his family from gunfire.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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