A father is in custody after police thwarted his attempt to drown his two children early Saturday morning at a beach in West Haven, Connecticut, leaving the children in intensive care.

The harrowing incident happened around 2:30 a.m. when an officer, investigating a parked SUV, heard screams from the water. Officers intervened, traveling nearly 100 yards from shore to rescue the children, who received lifesaving measures before being taken to a hospital. Their father, described by police as attempting to 'deliberately drown his children,' was arrested on the scene. The swift police response is credited with saving the children's lives, though they remain in intensive care, and the incident is under investigation.

The West Haven Police Department disclosed details of the incident through a social media post. According to the post, the first responding officer observed the parked SUV and, upon approaching the vehicle, heard distressing screams from the water. Acting quickly, the officer headed towards the sound, making a shocking discovery nearly 100 yards from the shore.

The screams came from the water where the father was with his two young children. As officers approached, the father screamed, 'Stay back,' attempting to prevent them from intervening. Without hesitation, the responding officer ventured into the water to rescue the children. The first officer to arrive was able to take the children, with help from other officers to get them to shore.

Once the children were brought back to shore, they were immediately given lifesaving measures. The officers' swift action and training were pivotal in stabilizing the children before they were rushed to a nearby hospital. As of Saturday, the children remained in intensive care, receiving constant medical attention to address the traumas they endured.

The father was apprehended on the scene by the police and was taken into custody. The police described his actions as an attempt to 'deliberately drown his children.' Authorities have not yet provided a motive for the father's actions, and the investigation into the incident is ongoing. No further details regarding charges have been released at this time.

The West Haven Police Department praised the quick response of the officers involved in the rescue. Their ability to act rapidly and decisively in a life-threatening situation is being credited for preventing a potential tragedy. The incident raises critical concerns about the safety and well-being of children and highlights the importance of vigilance and timely intervention by law enforcement.

Neighbors and community members were left in shock upon hearing about the incident. Many expressed disbelief and concern for the well-being of the children. The community is coming to terms with the traumatic event, and local authorities are likely to provide support to those affected.

Details regarding the father's identity have not been disclosed, and it is unclear whether he has legal representation at this time. The investigation will likely continue to uncover the circumstances leading up to the incident and to determine the appropriate legal actions.

Incidents like this highlight the critical role of law enforcement in safeguarding the lives of vulnerable individuals, especially children. The prompt and effective intervention by the officers in West Haven prevented what could have been a tragic loss of life. The investigation will provide further insights and answers as authorities work to understand and address the full scope of the situation.