Norwalk patrol officers responded to a report of a residential break-in at 150 Glover Ave.
The suspect, later identified as 36-year-old Nicolas I. Damjanovic, was charged with home invasion and disorderly conduct.
Upon arriving at the scene, officers spoke with the resident, a woman, who reported that a man entered her apartment through a sliding door and announced "inspection" as they entered.
The resident then saw Damjanovic in her kitchen removing knives from their knife block. The suspect stole six knives.
According to the resident, Damjanovic made threatening statements about blowing up the building and fled the scene.
Damjanovic was found outside the building by officers with the stolen knives, authorities said.
During Damjanovic's encounter with police, he stated there was a threat to the building of a potential gas leak and fire.
Fire personnel arrived on the scene to investigate and found a burnt rag on the stove of Damjanovic's apartment, confirming the fire threat.
No injuries were reported and the situation was contained without further incident.
Damjanovic is due in court on June 5 with a bond set at $100,000.