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A father has been charged after allegedly trying to drown his young son at a beach on Western Australia's Pilbara coast.
Police praised the bravery of bystanders they said stepped in to stop the alleged attempt.
It's alleged the 26-year-old drove his four-wheel drive into the water during low tide about 6.15am on Monday at the Dampier foreshore, roughly 200 kilometres west of Port Hedland.
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9News understands he allegedly got out of the vehicle, grabbed his son and walked deeper into the water, attempting to drown him.
That's when bystanders stepped in, according to police.
The child was taken to hospital for assessment but early indications suggested he was uninjured.
The father was charged with several charges including attempting to unlawfully kill.
"The WA Police Force want to commend the bravery and actions of the community members who intervened," police said, on social media.
"Inquiries will now be conducted into the circumstances of this incident."
Crisis support is available from Lifeline on 13 11 14.
