Denver Fire Chief Eric Tade was released after treatment for injuries sustained in a stabbing near fire headquarters Tuesday.
Police said a woman hopped into his unmarked chief's vehicle and stabbed the veteran firefighter, who managed to get out of the SUV.
A witness told the Denver Post that he saw Tade's Ford Explorer roll down the street without a driver.
Tade, a 24-year member of the department, was transported to Denver Health Center for wounds to his hands and legs.
"We had some witnesses on the scene that pointed us in the direction of a female suspect," police spokesman Doug Schepman said. "We're trying to piece together whether or not there is a connection between the victim and the suspect."
Officials said Tade left a trail of blood from the area where his SUV stopped and the fire station where he sought help. Both areas were blocked off by crime scene tape.
Police arrested Marlene Zacevich-Rodriguez, 42, and she is suspected of aggravated assault. The knife was recovered by investigators.
Officers haven't said if the chief and the woman knew each other.
Zacevich-Rodriguez had an arrest record going back to 1995, including charges of assault, domestic violence and disturbing the peace.
"We are pleased to announce that Chief Tade was released earlier this evening in good spirits and is currently recovering at home. The Denver Fire Department wishes to thank the Denver Police Department, Denver Health Paramedics and Denver Health Physicians for their quick response and extraordinary care," the fire department said in a statement.
"Thoughts and prayers with Chief Tade and his family right now," Mayor Michael Hancock tweeted.
