The Northern Territory Police Force is investigating following an accidental drowning incident that occurred in Palmerston this afternoon.

Around 3:30pm, the Joint Emergency Services Communication Centre received reports that a 3-year-old male had been located unresponsive in a pool in his backyard. The male was extracted from the water and CPR was commenced.

Police and St John Ambulance attended and continued CPR; however, he was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The Crime Command have carriage of the incident, and a report will be prepared for the coroner.

*This has been edited since initial release to correct the age of the deceased.*