The owners of Johnsons of Old Hurst zoo in Huntingdonshire have spoken publicly for the first time about the distressing incident last month when a three-year-old boy was thrown into a crocodile enclosure and seriously injured.
Rescue from the Crocodile Pit
Tracey Johnson, 55, is credited with pulling the toddler to safety from the 15-foot enclosure housing deadly crocodiles. Her husband Andrew, 56, and their son Edward, 29, also helped in the rescue. The child has since undergone multiple surgeries at a children's hospital.
In a statement, the family said: 'A fortnight ago, our family and team at Johnsons of Old Hurst experienced one of the most distressing incidents in our history. We were alerted to reports that a child had allegedly been thrown into one of our crocodile enclosures in the Tropical House.'
Swift Response and Community Support
They added: 'Everyone who was on site that day acted with incredible speed and determination. Within minutes of the first radio call, the child had been rescued from the enclosure and was receiving first aid. The emergency services arrived very quickly, supported by the MAGPAS Air Ambulance, and we cannot thank them enough for their professionalism, compassion and dedication in such difficult circumstances.'
The Johnsons also thanked off-duty paramedics and police officers who were among the visitors and stepped forward to help. 'We would also like to express our heartfelt thanks to the visitors who stepped forward to help, including off-duty paramedics and police officers, whose calm and immediate actions made a real difference.'
Staff Praised for Heroic Actions
'We are immensely proud of our own staff, who responded without hesitation and did everything they could to help and support the child until the emergency services took over,' the statement continued. The family noted the overwhelming kindness from the local community and people across the country.
'Every message of support, every kind word and every expression of concern has meant a great deal to our family and our team during an incredibly difficult time. Thank you for standing with us. Above all, our thoughts remain 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.'
Suspect and Investigation
A 30-year-old man described as 'mentally disabled' was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder following the incident. Police said he has been released on bail until September after 'not being fit for interview.'
