A Sydney banker has been accused of trying to murder his Australian partner with a saucepan and boiling water at a luxury French hotel, before allegedly attempting to flee the country.

David Cao, 37, was arrested by French authorities 36 hours after the alleged attack. He was detained near the Belgian border following a nationwide alert.

The incident unfolded on July 28 at the Château de Perreux boutique hotel in Nazelles‑Négron, central France.

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Cao and his partner were reportedly on a European holiday, staying in one of the hotel’s famous “cave rooms” before travelling to World Gay Pride in Amsterdam.

Local media reports claim Cao allegedly struck his partner on the head with a hot saucepan and poured boiling water over him. Guests and staff heard screams coming from the room, and hotel workers later found the victim alone with critical injuries.

Cao had allegedly fled in a rental car, travelling almost 500km north to Lille, where police intercepted him at the border.

He has been charged with attempted murder.

According to French outlet Ouest France, additional charges include kidnapping, theft, torture and acts of barbarity.

Cao is a former high‑flying finance executive who previously worked in senior banking roles in Sydney.

He was working for ING Australia but has been fired from the company following the charges.

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade is providing consular assistance to Cao’s partner, who is recovering in hospital.