A zoo in Cambridgeshire has publicly thanked its staff, emergency responders, and visitors whose quick actions helped rescue a three-year-old boy after he was allegedly thrown into a crocodile enclosure.
Child Rescued Within Minutes
The incident occurred on June 18 at Johnsons of Old Hurst in Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire, after emergency services received reports that a man had thrown a toddler into the crocodile enclosure inside the zoo’s Tropical House.
Zoo staff, including owners Andy and Tracey Johnson, immediately entered the enclosure to rescue the child before providing first aid until paramedics arrived.
The boy was later airlifted to Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge for emergency treatment.
Zoo Praises Heroic Response
In a public statement, the zoo described the incident as one of the most distressing events in its history.
Management thanked staff members for responding without hesitation and expressed gratitude to emergency services, the MAGPAS Air Ambulance, and visitors—including off-duty police officers and paramedics—who assisted during the emergency.
The zoo also thanked members of the public for the overwhelming support shown to the family and staff in the days following the incident.
Boy Recovering After Multiple Surgeries
The child reportedly suffered multiple serious injuries after being attacked by at least one crocodile, including a shattered arm and pelvis.
He has undergone several surgeries and remains in stable condition but is expected to face a lengthy recovery.
A fundraising campaign launched to support his treatment and rehabilitation has raised more than £22,000.
Family Expresses Gratitude
In a statement, the boy’s family thanked the zoo staff for rescuing their son and expressed appreciation for the support received from the public and medical teams caring for him.
They said their focus remains entirely on helping him recover physically and emotionally during what will be a challenging rehabilitation process.
Police Investigation Continues
A 30-year-old man from Norfolk was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder shortly after the incident.
Police later released him on bail while investigations continue, stating that he had been assessed as not being fit for interview. Authorities confirmed the suspect was not known to the child.
Detectives are reviewing CCTV footage and gathering evidence to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident.
Separately, the Care Quality Commission is examining the care arrangements relating to the suspect, while another investigation is looking into reports that multiple NHS staff accessed the child’s confidential medical records without authorization.
Crocodile Enclosure Reopens
The enclosure, home to several crocodiles and alligators—including large Nile crocodiles—has since reopened to visitors.
Zoo officials said their thoughts remain with the injured child and his family as they continue to recover from the traumatic incident.
Disclaimer: The images used in this article are for illustrative and representational purposes only. They may not depict the actual people, animals, locations, or events described in the story.
