New Bedford Guide Your Guide to New Bedford and South Coast, MA
“Yesterday morning, at approximately 0231 hours, an Officer on patrol in the area of Ocean Ave and Dawson Ave observed a Nissan SUV parked on the beach.
As the Officer approached he heard significant screaming taking place from the water. As he continued towards this commotion it was apparent an adult male and two small children were in the water. As the Officer entered the water the adult male continued to drift further away with the children all while screaming at the responding officers to “stay back.”
It was obvious at this point that the male, later identified as Romney Desronvil (7-31-82) was deliberately drowning his children. Officers immediately entered the water and were nearly 100 yards away from shore at this time. Other Officers on scene joined members of the West Shore Fire Department and entered the water utilizing the West Shore Fire boat.
The initial arriving Officer was able to gain possession of both children and back up officers assisted him in bringing the children to shore. Life saving measures were provided to both children and they were immediately transported in an ambulance to a local hospital.
Members of the New Haven Police Department met the ambulance and W.H.P.D. at the town line to assist in an escort to the hospital allowing for an immediate transport for further medical assistance. Both children remain in the ICU at the hospital.
At this time Romney Desronvil of Queens, New York is in West Haven Police Custody and charges for this heinous act are pending.
It is without a doubt the swift response by our patrol officers saved the lives of these children. The communication and collaborative efforts made by the West Shore Fire Department and eventually the New Haven Police Department allowed for immediate medical aid and also the apprehension of Desronvil.
Our Detective Division have now assumed the investigation and more information will be provided as the investigation proceeds.”-West Haven Police Department.
