The burglar soon learned he picked the wrong house, as the elderly man unexpectedly fought back with a hammer.
George Bradford said he did what he had to to protect himself and his family. He struck the suspect on the head while his daughter called 911.
Responding officers found a 33-year-old male suspect bleeding from his head in the living room, a police spokesperson told ABC News.
The suspect was treated for his injuries and is now facing home invasion charges.
If there is a next time, Bradford said, he won't use a hammer.