Authorities have arrested a man who they say was trying to drown children at a beach early Saturday morning.
Romney Deslonville, 42, of Queens, New York, is accused of “intentionally” trying to drown the children on a Connecticut beach.
The “heinous act” occurred shortly after 2:30 a.m., the West Haven Police Department said in a press release.
A police officer patrolling the area at the time heard “loud screaming” and noticed an SUV parked on the beach.
“As officers approached, they heard loud screams coming from the water,” the sheriff’s office said. “As officers made their way toward the commotion, it was apparent that an adult male and two young children were in the water.”
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Officers with the West Haven Police Department reportedly noticed a father trying to drown his children on the beach. (Google Maps)
When patrol officers entered the water, the suspect reportedly moved himself and the children further into Long Island Sound, yelling at officers to “get away!”
“At this point it was apparent the man was deliberately attempting to drown the children,” the statement said.
“Officers quickly entered the water and were approximately 100 yards from shore at this point,” the statement added. “Other officers on scene were joined by members of the West Shore Fire Department and entered the water using the West Shore Fireboat.”
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The incident happened near Ocean and Dawson Avenues in West Haven, Connecticut. (Google Maps)
Officers rescued the children and rushed them to a local hospital for treatment. As of 9 a.m. Saturday, both remained in intensive care.
“There is no doubt that the quick response of our patrol officers saved the lives of these children,” the statement concluded. “Communication and cooperation with the West Shore Fire Department and ultimately the New Haven Police Department allowed for immediate medical assistance and the arrest of suspect Deslonville.”
The West Haven Police Department is currently investigating the incident. (West Haven Police Department/Facebook)
“The investigation has now been taken over by our detective division and more information will be provided as the investigation progresses.”
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Criminal charges against Dezeronville are still pending.
The West Haven Police Department did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital’s request for comment.
