NASHUA — A Merrimack Street resident heard noises coming from the basement of his apartment building and, when he went to investigate, discovered a man cutting out the copper piping, police said.

The suspect fled the scene and soon other residents of the 7 Merrimack St. building realized they had no water, according to Lt. Michael Moushegian.

Investigators identified the culprit as someone who lived in the neighborhood and quickly arrested Bruce Young, 34, at his 12 Abbott St. residence a short distance away.

Police said Young entered the residence with the intent of causing damage to it. He was arrested and charged with burglary, a class B felony.

Young is being detained on $7,500 cash/surety bail pending arraignment Thursday in 9th Circuit Court, Nashua District.