NYC man tried to drown 2 children at West Haven beach

Early Saturday morning, a Queens man was arrested after allegedly attempting to drown his two young children at a beach in West Haven, Connecticut. The suspect, identified as 41-year-old Romney Desronvil, was apprehended by police after a dramatic rescue operation that saved the lives of his children, both under the age of three.

The incident unfolded around 2:30 a.m. when a West Haven Police Department patrol officer noticed an SUV parked on the beach near Ocean and Dawson Avenues. As the officer approached the vehicle, he heard desperate screams coming from the water. Upon closer inspection, the officer saw Desronvil and his two children drifting further away from the shore. Despite the officer's attempts to intervene, Desronvil shouted at him to stay back, making it clear that he was deliberately trying to drown the children.

Realizing the gravity of the situation, the officer called for backup. Additional officers and members of the West Shore Fire Department quickly arrived at the scene. They deployed rescue boats and ventured nearly 100 yards into the water to reach the trio. The officers managed to pull the children away from Desronvil and bring them back to shore, where they immediately began life-saving measures.

The children were rushed to Yale New Haven Children’s Hospital and remained in critical condition as of Saturday evening. The quick response of the emergency personnel was crucial in preventing a tragic outcome. Three police officers involved in the rescue operation were also treated for minor injuries.

Desronvil was taken into custody and charged with two counts of attempted homicide and two counts of risk of injury. The West Haven Police Department commended the swift actions of the patrol officers and the collaborative efforts with the fire department, which were instrumental in saving the children's lives.

During a news conference, Police Chief Joseph Perno highlighted the critical role of the officers and the fire department in the rescue operation. He emphasized the importance of their prompt response and coordination, which ensured that the children received immediate medical attention. West Haven Mayor Dorinda Borer also praised the officers, referring to them as the children's "guardian angels" and lauding their remarkable efforts.

Fire Chief Stephen Scafariello echoed these sentiments, acknowledging the exceptional level of care provided by the firefighters, EMTs, and paramedics. He noted that the children received medical attention within 22 minutes of the emergency call, underscoring the efficiency and dedication of the emergency responders.

The incident has left the community in shock, with many expressing their disbelief and concern over the traumatic event. The children's mother, who arrived in New Haven from New York on the same day, is reportedly by their side as they recover in the hospital.

As the investigation continues, authorities are looking into the circumstances that led to Desronvil's actions. The West Haven Police Department has not yet provided information on whether Desronvil has legal representation. The department has urged anyone with additional information about the incident to come forward.

This tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the critical role that first responders play in protecting and saving lives. The bravery and quick thinking of the West Haven police officers and firefighters undoubtedly prevented a devastating loss, and their actions have been rightfully commended by the community and officials alike.