Police officers were called to Johnson's of Old Hurst zoo, in Huntingdonshire, last month after reports of an incident involving a three-year-old boy who ended up in the crocodile enclosure. The boy, from Cambridgeshire, was reportedly attacked by at least one crocodile before being rescued by zoo staff, including Tracey Johnson, the wife of the zoo's owner, who reportedly jumped into the enclosure to save the child.
Family expresses gratitude
In a statement issued through Cambridgeshire police, the family said: “We would like to thank the staff at the zoo who rescued our son from the enclosure … our attention remains focused on his recovery and supporting him through this extremely challenging and prolonged period of time.” Police said the family wished to remain anonymous.
The boy is now in a stable condition and remains at Addenbrooke’s hospital in Cambridge after undergoing multiple surgeries. A fundraising page set up to support his recovery says: “After undergoing multiple surgeries, his condition is now stable, but he faces a long road to recovery. His parents are currently by his side in hospital, supporting him through both immediate and ongoing care physically and psychologically.”
Investigation ongoing
A 30-year-old man from Norfolk was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and later bailed after he was “assessed as not being fit for interview”. A spokesperson for Cambridgeshire police said the boy “sustained serious injuries while in the enclosure” and “was pulled out by staff from the zoo”. The fundraising page hails the “extraordinary bravery and quick actions of those nearby” in rescuing the boy.
The zoo’s website says it is home to “over 100 fascinating animals” including African lions, Bengal tigers and crocodiles. The incident has prompted an investigation, and the family continues to focus on the boy's recovery.
