A 38-year-old man is in custody following an hours-long manhunt after allegedly setting fire to the Pennsylvania Governor’s Residence. The incident occurred just hours after Governor Josh Shapiro and his family celebrated the first night of Passover.
Fortunately, the governor, his family, and others inside the residence were able to escape unharmed. However, officials say the experience left them shaken and deeply traumatized.
Governor Shapiro said he was awakened around 2 a.m. by police pounding on the door, prompting a swift evacuation of the residence. Firefighters responded quickly and were able to bring the blaze under control.
A senior law enforcement official told ABC News that investigators are looking into whether the attack may have been motivated by the governor’s Jewish faith. The incident is being treated as a serious and targeted act, though no official motive has been confirmed.
Authorities have not yet released the suspect’s name or a possible motive. The investigation is ongoing.
On X, Governor Kathy Hochul wrote, “Relieved that @GovernorShapiro and his family are safe after this horrifying act of arson. Grateful to Pennsylvania’s law enforcement and first responders for their swift action.”
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