A farmer who hid in the mountains and tried to commit suicide after attacking his wife and mother-in-law was discovered by the police and immediately sent for medical treatment, Xi'an Evening News reported on Thursday.

The suspect, 27, from Linyou county, Shaanxi province, allegedly attacked his wife and mother-in-law with an ax after a bout of heavy drinking. He then fled.

On Monday morning, the suspect called the police offering to give himself up but did not appear at the agreed time.

The police found him after a search and believe he may have swallowed pesticide.