HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP) – Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro and his family experienced a late-night evacuation from the official governor's residence following a fire that was later deemed an act of arson. The incident occurred on the first night of the Jewish holiday of Passover, which the Shapiro family had celebrated at their residence located in the state capital of Harrisburg.

Authorities reported that there were no injuries as a result of the fire, which was quickly extinguished. Pennsylvania State Police confirmed in their statement that the investigation is active but suggests that the fire was intentionally set. Specific details regarding the cause of the fire at the riverfront mansion, built in the 1960s, remain undisclosed.

In a statement, Governor Shapiro recounted the events of the evacuation, saying he and his family were awakened around 2 a.m. by knocks on their door from the Pennsylvania State Police. As firefighters from the Harrisburg Bureau of Fire responded to the scene, police managed to safely evacuate the Shapiro family from the residence.

“Thank God no one was injured and the fire was extinguished,” Shapiro expressed in his statement. Following the incident, visible fire damage was evident on the south side of the residence. This included significant destruction in a large room that is commonly used for entertaining guests and displaying artwork.

On-site, there was a continued police presence as investigators worked diligently on the case. Yellow caution tape closed off an alleyway, and officers could be seen utilizing a dog to assist in the investigation. The Pennsylvania State Police are leading the inquiry and have announced a reward of up to $10,000 for any information that could result in an arrest and conviction related to this crime.

The shocking event raises concerns about safety and security, particularly given its timing during a significant religious observance. Governor Shapiro, who is viewed as a potential contender for the Democratic Party in the 2028 Presidential election, has not commented further on the implications of this incident on his political future.

As the investigation unfolds, the community remains on alert, deeply concerned about the potential motivations behind the arson and the safety of public figures and their families. This incident also highlights the need for heightened security measures at official residences, especially during important cultural celebrations and events.

The ongoing investigation will continue to receive scrutiny as police aim to uncover the details that led to the evacuation of the governor and his family from their official residence. Hence, the public and authorities alike await further developments in this alarming case.