HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP) – Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro and his family experienced a harrowing night as they were evacuated from the official governor’s residence after a fire was set in the building, according to police reports from Sunday.
Fortunately, no injuries were reported, and the fire was quickly extinguished by emergency responders. The incident occurred on the first night of the Jewish holiday of Passover, a holiday that Shapiro and his family had been celebrating at the residence in Harrisburg, the state capital.
Pennsylvania State Police stated that they are currently investigating the incident but indicated that they are prepared to classify it as an act of arson. Specific details surrounding the exact cause of the fire at the riverfront mansion, which dates back to the 1960s, have yet to be disclosed by authorities.
In a statement, Governor Shapiro recounted the frightening moment when he and his family were awakened around 2 a.m. by loud banging on the door from state police, as the fire broke out. The Harrisburg Bureau of Fire was called to the scene, where they managed to extinguish the flames, while police ensured Shapiro and his family were evacuated safely.
Shapiro expressed gratitude that no one was harmed during the ordeal and remarked, “Thank God no one was injured and the fire was extinguished,” reflecting on the seriousness of the situation.
In the aftermath of the fire, visible damage was observed on the south side of the mansion, particularly impacting a large room often utilized for entertaining guests and showcasing art. Throughout the early afternoon on Sunday, a police presence remained as investigators cordoned off the area with yellow tape and deployed a police dog near an iron security fence.
The Pennsylvania State Police are leading the investigation into the incident and have announced a reward of up to $10,000 for information that leads to an arrest and conviction related to this act of arson. The community is encouraged to come forward with any information that may assist in bringing those responsible for this incident to justice.