A bat-wielding suspect allegedly broke into and entered an East Arlington residence at about 3:45 p.m. Tuesday, March 19.

Unbeknownst to the suspect, the residence was the home of an off-duty Arlington police officer, according to a police department press release.

In fear for his safety, the officer drew his service weapon and ordered the suspect to “stop,” according to the release. The suspect immediately fled the scene, police said.

After a foot chase with the officer and responding units, the suspect was taken into custody without injury, police said.

Joseph A. Maloof, 31, of Broadway, Arlington, was arrested and charged with felony breaking and entering during the day with person in fear, home invasion and possession of a burglarious instrument.

“This suspect allegedly victimized a highly trained and highly motivated Arlington police officer,” Arlington Police Chief Frederick Ryan said in a statement. “We are pleased we took the suspect into custody without further incident.”

The incident remains under investigation by the department’s Criminal Investigation Bureau.

Update, 3:30 p.m., Wednesday, March 20

At the time of the incident, the off-duty officer was asleep in his bedroom when he was awoken by someone ringing his doorbell several times, according to the police report.

The officer said he decided not to answer the door and continued lying in bed until he heard several loud banging noises coming from the back of his residence, which is located off the kitchen.

At that time, he said he went to the rear door and saw the suspect standing there. He said he asked him what he was doing there, and the suspect said, “Where’s John?” The officer said, “Who’s John?” and at that point, the suspect yelled “Go! Go!” and fled the scene, according to the police.

The suspect was wearing a black hooded sweatshirt and blue jeans, the officer said.

Maloof was “verbally and physically combative” during the booking process, according to police.