A serious incident on Rhodes is under investigation after a man attempted to force a moving vehicle off a cliff while his former partner and their 3-year old child were inside.

According to local reports, the incident took place on the evening of April 21 when the woman had picked up the child and later agreed to drive her estranged husband towards a nearby town at his request.

During the journey, the situation escalated dramatically when the man reportedly grabbed the steering wheel and tried to redirect the vehicle towards a cliff edge.

The driver reacted immediately, forcing the steering wheel in the opposite direction in an effort to prevent the car from leaving the road. The sudden struggle caused the vehicle to collide with an oncoming car, resulting in minor material damage.

Despite the collision, the man allegedly continued to interfere with the controls, attempting to operate the pedals. However, the engine stalled shortly afterwards, bringing the immediate danger to an end.

Following the incident, the man exited the vehicle and later drove away in his own car. His vehicle subsequently left the road and fell into a ravine approximately 60 metres deep.

He was later found injured and transported to hospital, where reports indicated a strong smell of alcohol. Authorities said he is now being treated in a psychiatric facility.

A criminal case has been filed against him on charges including attempted homicide, dangerous driving and domestic violence.

People who new the estranged couple mentioned great tension between the two, who had been separated, with the mom having custody of the child.