Man charged in chaotic Harrison Twp. home invasion

A 34-year-old Harrison Township man is behind bars after a chaotic home invasion early Wednesday involving a fight with a resident, a woman's panicked 911, and children sleeping nearby, according to the Macomb County Sheriff's Office.

Erik Leon Niedzwiecki is accused of forcing his way into a home around 4:05 a.m. on Chart in Harrison Township, officials said. He was arraigned Thursday in 41B District Court on charges of second degree home invasion, malicious destruction of a building, malicious destruction of property and aggravated assault.

He faces up to 15 years in prison on the first charge.

The incident began after the 34-year-old male homeowner started his vehicle to warm it up and then returned to his residence.

"The man stated that he went back inside his home, and shortly thereafter he heard two loud 'bangs,'" officials said in a statement. "The locked front door to his home flew open and an unknown male subject came in."

The homeowner "immediately confronted" the intruder while the victim's wife dialed 911. There also were two children present inside the home during the break-in, officials said.

"According to the (female) caller, an unknown person had broken into her home and the man was now fighting with her husband inside the home," officials said. "Sheriff deputies arrived and found the assailant being held down by the (male) homeowner."

Niedzwiecki was arrested at the scene. The homeowner received minor injuries during the incident but refused medical attention, indicating he would seek treatment on his own.

It is not known why Niedzwiecki allegedly targeted the home. He received a bond of $75,000 cash or surety at arraignment and is due back in court April 5.

hfournier@detroitnews.com

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@HollyPFournier