A British tourist was apprehended following an alleged incident at a Benidorm beach where he purportedly tried to drown a stranger in the sea and then assaulted a young boy. The 44-year-old individual, who was lodging at a hotel in the Costa Blanca area, is said to be undergoing medical care in a hospital pending a psychiatric evaluation after the disturbing events.

He was taken into custody on suspicion of attempted murder, causing bodily harm, and issuing threats after reportedly losing control at Poniente Beach, the largest sandy expanse in Benidorm. The unidentified man apparently tried to drown a 34-year-old Norwegian woman who was swimming with her partner.

Subsequently, he proceeded to the shore where he grabbed a five-year-old Spanish boy by the neck while the child was out with his parents, allegedly attempting to smother him. The boy’s mother and other beach visitors rushed to assist, with a lifeguard managing to subdue and confine the British individual until law enforcement arrived.

Reports indicate that he was admitted to Villajoyosa Hospital for medical attention and is currently under police supervision awaiting a mental health evaluation. Following his arrest, he was transferred to the National Police before being hospitalized.

Both law enforcement agencies have not released an official statement regarding the incident that took place on a Tuesday afternoon.