Armed Home Invasion Suspect Arrested In Union County

SUMMIT, NJ — A man who police say broke into a Summit home with residents inside and stole a car on Feb. 21 has been arrested.

The Summit Police Department announced the arrest of 26-year-old Alquan Harris of East Orange following a comprehensive and multi-agency investigation that spanned several months and multiple jurisdictions.

At around 1:40 a.m. on Feb. 21, the suspect, later identified as Harris, unlawfully entered a home while armed with a gun with residents inside and committed multiple felonies, including burglary and theft of a 2025 Infiniti QX80, according to Summit Police.

"During the incident, Harris did not interact with the residents, and no injuries were reported; however, the event left a significant impact on the affected family and community," said police.

After an extensive investigation involving surveillance analysis, forensic evidence, and intelligence-sharing, Harris was taken into custody.

Harris faces a total of 12 charges, including:

• First-degree home invasion burglary
• Second-degree burglary to auto while armed
• Second-degree theft of a motor vehicle
• Second-degree possession of a weapon
• Second-degree possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose
• Second-degree certain persons not to have weapons
• Third-degree receiving a stolen vehicle
• Third-degree theft by unlawful taking
• Third-degree burglary
• Fourth-degree certain persons not to have weapons
• Disorderly persons - theft under $200

Chief Ryan Peters credited the arrest to the tireless efforts of the Summit Police Detective Bureau, as well as collaboration with regional partners.

"This case is a testament to the determination and professionalism of our officers and investigators," said Peters. "We are especially grateful for the coordinated support from the Union County Prosecutor’s Office, Essex County Prosecutor’s Office, and other assisting agencies whose partnership made this arrest possible."

Harris is currently being held in Essex County Jail pending a detention hearing. The investigation remains active, and further charges may be forthcoming.

A second suspect in the home invasion remains at large, a Summit Spokesperson confirmed to Patch.

Anyone with additional information is encouraged to contact the Summit Police Department Detective Bureau at 908-273-0051.

Have a news tip? Email alexis.tarrazi@patch.com.