A British tourist was taken into custody after allegedly trying to drown a stranger in the ocean at a Benidorm beach and subsequently assaulting a young boy. The 44-year-old individual, who was staying at a hotel in the Costa Blanca resort, is presently undergoing medical treatment in a hospital while awaiting a psychiatric evaluation in the aftermath of the disturbing incident.
Charged with attempted murder, causing bodily harm, and making threats, the unidentified man reportedly lost control at Poniente Beach, the largest sandy stretch in Benidorm. His actions included an attempt to drown a 34-year-old Norwegian woman who was swimming with her partner. Subsequently, he moved onto the shore and grabbed a five-year-old Spanish boy by the throat, allegedly attempting to suffocate him while the child was with his parents on a day out.
The boy’s mother hurried to assist, aided by other beach visitors, as a lifeguard subdued and restrained the British man until law enforcement arrived. Local reports indicate that he was hospitalized at Villajoyosa Hospital for medical attention and is currently under police supervision pending a mental health evaluation.
After his arrest, he was transferred to the National Police before being hospitalized. As of now, neither law enforcement agency has released an official statement regarding the events that unfolded on Tuesday afternoon.