The proprietors of a zoo where a three-year-old boy was attacked by a crocodile have publicly addressed the incident for the first time. Andy and Tracey Johnson, who manage the zoo in Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire, described the distressing nature of the event that occurred on June 18.
The child fell 15 feet onto a concrete path, sustaining a broken arm and pelvis before entering the water. He is currently receiving treatment at Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge, with authorities confirming his stable condition but noting a long recovery ahead.
Following the incident at Johnsons of Old Hurst, a 30-year-old man from Norfolk was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder. Subsequently, he was released on bail due to being deemed unfit for questioning, reportedly possessing learning disabilities and being accompanied by caregivers.
Cambridgeshire Police stated that the boy was injured by a crocodile after entering its enclosure. The authorities were alerted by emergency services about a boy with severe injuries at the zoo. Staff at the zoo, including Tracey Johnson, swiftly acted to rescue the child from the enclosure.
In a recent statement, Andy and Tracey Johnson expressed gratitude to all involved in the swift response, including emergency services, off-duty medical personnel, and visitors who offered assistance. They commended their staff for their immediate and dedicated efforts to aid the child until professional help arrived. The couple also thanked the local community for overwhelming support during this challenging time.
The boy’s family, in a statement released through Cambridgeshire Police, extended appreciation to the zoo staff for rescuing their son and acknowledged the public support and care received for his recovery in the hospital. Their primary focus remains on the boy’s recuperation and ensuring he receives the necessary support throughout this difficult period.
