WEST HAVEN, Conn. – A New York man was arrested over the weekend for allegedly trying to drown his two children on a beach in Connecticut. The incident unfolded in the early hours of Saturday morning when a police officer discovered a Nissan SUV parked on a local beach and heard screams coming from the water.
According to the West Haven Police Department, the officer witnessed a man and two young children in the water. As the officer approached them, the man began to move farther away, all while screaming at the officer to stay back. It was later determined that the man, identified as 41-year-old Romney Desronvil from Queens, was intentionally attempting to drown his children.
Swift action was taken by the officers, with some entering the water and others calling in support from the West Shore Fire Department. Eventually, the first officer was able to reach the children and bring them safely to shore, with the help of others. The children were then transported to a local hospital, where life-saving measures were carried out.
During a news conference, West Haven Mayor Dorinda Borer praised the officers for their bravery and quick response. She referred to the officers involved, Officer Williamson and Officer Miller, as the guardian angels of the children. Police Chief Joseph Perno stated that Desronvil is expected to face charges of attempted murder and risk of injury.
The children, both under the age of 3, appeared to be improving when last reported. Their mother, who was reportedly in New York at the time of the incident, arrived in New Haven by Saturday afternoon. Fire Chief Stephen Scafariello commended the efforts of the firefighters, EMTs, and paramedics who provided immediate care to the children upon arrival.
The investigation into the incident is ongoing. The timely response of the patrol officers, along with the collaborative efforts of the fire and police departments, ensured the children’s lives were saved and Desronvil was apprehended.