Maryland Man Arrested for Machete and Gun Robbery

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Police in Anne Arundel County, Maryland have arrested a 51-year-old man named Nelson Alexander Martinez for allegedly using a machete and a handgun to rob a homeowner in Pasadena. The incident occurred on February 9th when the suspect asked to see the inside of the victim's home, then pulled out the weapons and stole the victim's phone and bank card before fleeing.

Why it matters

This robbery highlights ongoing concerns about home invasions and violent property crimes in the Anne Arundel County area, which has seen a mix of decreasing and increasing robbery and theft statistics in recent years. The use of both a machete and a firearm also raises questions about the escalating violence and danger involved in some of these incidents.

The details

According to police, the 45-year-old homeowner was renovating his home when Martinez approached and asked to see inside. Once in the basement, Martinez allegedly pulled out a machete and a handgun and demanded money from the victim. Martinez then stole the homeowner's phone and bank card, punched the victim, and fled the scene. The homeowner suffered non-life-threatening injuries and was taken to a nearby hospital. Investigators determined the incident was targeted, and Martinez was arrested three days later in Montgomery County.

• The robbery occurred on February 9, 2026.
• Martinez was arrested on February 12, 2026.

What they’re saying

What’s next

Prosecutors will determine whether to charge Martinez with additional crimes beyond the initial robbery charges.