Zoo where boy attacked by crocodile describe ‘distressing’ incident
The family behind the zoo, where a 3-year-old boy was seriously injured after being attacked by a crocodile, described the incident as “one of the saddest events in our history.”
The boy had wandered into the crocodile enclosure at Johnsons of Old Hurst, near Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire, on June 18 before being rescued by zoo staff. He remains in hospital in stable condition.
In a statement released Thursday, the zoo praised the “incredible speed and determination” of those who helped it and said it had been an “incredibly difficult time” for them.
The post on social media said, “Everyone on the field that day acted with incredible speed and determination.”
“A few minutes after the initial radio call, the child was rescued from the confined space and was receiving first aid.
“Emergency services arrived very quickly, with support from MAGPAS Air Ambulance, and we cannot thank them enough for their professionalism, compassion and dedication in these difficult circumstances.”
A 30-year-old man from Norfolk was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder following the incident and was later released on bail after police said he was “assessed unfit to appear”.
The suspect in the case reportedly had a learning disability and was on trips with caregivers.
The Johnsons, of Old Hurst, expressed their “heartfelt thanks to the visitors who came forward to help, including off-duty paramedics and police officers”.
They said their “calm and immediate actions made a real difference.”
The event added: “We are extremely proud of our staff who intervened without hesitation and did all they could to help and support the child until emergency services became involved.
“The kindness we have received from our local community and people across the country has been overwhelming.
“Every message of support, every kind word and every expression of concern has meant so much to our family and team during an incredibly difficult time.”
They continued: “First and foremost, our thoughts are with the young boy and his family. We continue to hope and pray for his speedy recovery and ask that they are given the privacy, compassion and support they need at this time.”
It came a day after the boy’s family released a statement thanking zoo staff for saving him.
They added: “We are truly grateful to everyone directly involved in our son’s care and recovery in hospital, as well as the public support and good wishes we have received.
“Our attention is focused on his recovery and supporting him through this extremely challenging and lengthy period.”
