Harrisburg, PA – A portion of the Pennsylvania Governor’s Residence sustained significant damage early Sunday after a fire broke out in what authorities are now calling a deliberate act of arson.
According to the Pennsylvania State Police, the blaze was reported around 2 a.m. at the historic residence located on North Front Street in Harrisburg. Fire crews from the Harrisburg Bureau of Fire quickly responded and were able to extinguish the flames, preventing further damage to the building.
Officials confirmed that Governor Josh Shapiro and his family were present in a different area of the home at the time of the fire. They were evacuated without injury.
Troop H of the Pennsylvania State Police is leading the investigation in coordination with multiple agencies. While the investigation remains ongoing, early evidence has led officials to determine that the fire was intentionally set.
In an effort to identify those responsible, the state is offering a reward of up to $10,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons involved. Tips can be submitted by calling 1-800-4PA-TIPS (1-800-472-8477) or online at p3tips.com. Tipsters may remain anonymous and are eligible for cash rewards tied to arrests, cold case resolutions, or locating fugitives or missing individuals.
A video statement regarding the incident was also released by the Pennsylvania State Police and can be viewed here.
Authorities are urging anyone with relevant information to come forward as they work to ensure the security of the Governor’s Residence and the safety of its occupants.
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