COPS have arrested a suspected arsonist for allegedly setting Democratic governor Josh Shapiro's residence on fire.

A man named Cody Balmer, 38, is now under custody after authorities launched a manhunt to find the firestarter.

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Balmer had homemade incendiary devices in his possession and made it inside the residence before leaving, according to the state police commissioner.

He is said to have hopped over a fence surrounding the property and forcibly entered the residence before setting it on fire.

Authorities said that forthcoming charges on Balmer will include attempted murder, terrorism, attempted arson and aggravated assault.

Shapiro and his family were forced to evacuate their residence, which has been "significantly damaged".

Fire damage was visible on the residence's south side, primarily to a large room often used for entertaining crowds and art displays.

Large west-facing windows were completely missing their glass panes, and doors stood ajar amid signs of charring.

No one was injured, and the fire was extinguished, according to authorities.

Pennsylvania State Police, the department investigating the alleged arson, said: "While the fire was successfully extinguished, it caused a significant amount of damage to a portion of the residence."

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"While the investigation is ongoing, the State Police is prepared to say at this time that this was an act of arson."

Shortly after the attack, Shapiro said: "Last night at about 2am, my family and I woke up to bangs on the door from the Pennsylvania State Police after an arsonist set fire to the Governor's Residence in Harrisburg.

"Thank God no one was injured and the fire was extinguished."

Shapiro has held the title of Governor of Pennsylvania since January 2023.

He entered the 2022 race for governor as the only Democratic candidate up against Mastriano, a staunch supporter of Trump.

Shapiro also worked as chair of the board of commissioners in Montgomery County from 2011 to 2017 and as a state representative from 2005 to 2011.

The 48th Governor of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania is also an American lawyer.

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