A 34-year-old man was arrested by North Charleston police early Saturday morning on assault and drug trafficking charges following a violent altercation at an apartment complex.

According to police, officers responded shortly after midnight to the 1900 block of Kerry Street in reference to a noise complaint involving individuals allegedly throwing objects at a vehicle.

Upon arrival, an officer observed a man running between apartment buildings while screaming for help. Police said the officer then saw Derrick Bashad Scott chasing the victim while wielding a large metal drill bit and attempting to strike him with it.

Investigators said the victim managed to partially deflect the weapon with his right hand, suffering a laceration in the process. Despite commands from officers to stop, Scott allegedly fled the scene. Officers pursued him on foot and took him into custody after a brief chase.

The victim told police he had been visiting friends at the apartment complex when Scott grabbed the drill bit, threatened to kill him, and swung the object at him. The victim reported being struck in the chest near his heart before escaping. He was transported to a local hospital for treatment of his injuries.

During Scott’s arrest, officers reportedly discovered a large quantity of pills and powder. Police said approximately 63 grams of the substance tested presumptively positive for fentanyl.

Scott was charged with Assault and Battery in the First Degree and Trafficking Fentanyl. He was booked into the county detention center pending further court proceedings.