US police have arrested a suspect believed to have committed arson and terrorism after an attack on the official residence in Pennsylvania of Democratic Governor Josh Shapiro, according to law enforcement. The man allegedly scaled a tall security fence, avoided the police, broke into Shapiro’s mansion, and started a fire causing significant damage with a homemade explosive device.

The Shapiro family and guests managed to evacuate the building after being alerted by the police around 2 am local time (0600 GMT). The fire was extinguished and no casualties were reported. The suspect was later apprehended, though authorities have not yet disclosed the motive.

At a press conference on the fire-damaged south wing of the governor’s residence, Shapiro vowed not to be deterred. He and his family had celebrated Passover at the residence, and he drew parallels between the freedom story of the Jewish holiday and his refusal to be bound by the attacker’s ill-intentions.

Shapiro strongly denounced the increasing political violence, stating it’s a problem regardless of its origin or targets. He further remarked that if the date was connected to his position as a governor, it would only motivate him to work harder. If it relates to his faith, he declared he would proudly celebrate it.

Dauphin County District Attorney Fran Chardo announced plans to charge the suspect with multiple severe felonies, including attempted murder, terrorism, and aggravated arson.

After the attack, Shapiro received support from various quarters. Вubblic figures, including Republican politicians, expressed their solidarity and condemned the incident.

Source: https://www.dw.com/en/josh-shapiro-man-arrested-for-arson-at-governor-s-home/a-72234591?maca=en-rss-en-all-1573-rdf