The Pennsylvania State Police are investigating an overnight fire at the Governor’s Residence in Harrisburg as a case of arson.
Fire crews from the Harrisburg Bureau of Fire responded to reports of a fire at the Governor’s Residence, located on North Front Street in Dauphin County, around 2 a.m. on Sunday.
According to Governor Josh Shapiro, he and his family were home when the fire occurred. In his statement, he recounted how they were awakened by “bangs on the door from the Pennsylvania State Police after an arsonist set fire to the Governor’s Residence in Harrisburg.”
As fire crews worked to extinguish the flames, Shapiro reported that his family was safely evacuated from the residence with assistance from state police and Capitol police.
The governor confirmed that everyone was unharmed and the fire was eventually brought under control.
Attorney General Dave Sunday commended the first responders for their prompt actions, stating his office “stands ready with any resources needed to find the perpetrator of this senseless act of violence.”
Pennsylvania State Police Troop H is leading the investigation into the fire, which caused extensive damage to part of the residence. They are offering a $10,000 reward through PSP Tips for information leading to an arrest and conviction.
Authorities are urging anyone with relevant information about the fire to contact 1-800-4PA TIPS (1-800-472-8477).
The Governor’s Residence, situated along the Susquehanna River, is a 29,000 square foot Georgian-style home designed by architect George Ewing.
This residence has served as home to eight governors and their families, according to the state’s official website.
