A three-year-old boy suffered serious injuries after being allegedly thrown into a crocodile enclosure at a zoo in Huntingdonshire. The wife of the zoo owner reportedly jumped in to rescue him, leading to the arrest of a 30-year-old man on suspicion of attempted murder.
Incident at Johnson's of Old Hurst
Police were called at approximately 1:24 pm on Thursday to reports of an incident involving a three-year-old boy who ended up in the crocodile enclosure at Johnson's of Old Hurst. Cambridgeshire Police confirmed the details, adding that a 30-year-old man from Norfolk was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder.
A local resident, who wished to remain anonymous, told the Press Association that the zoo owner's wife, Tracey Johnson, entered the enclosure to save the child. Another local resident informed The Sun: "Apparently, the wife of the zoo owner, Tracey Johnson, jumped into the enclosure to save the child."
Victim in Critical Condition
The boy was rushed to Addenbrooke's Hospital in Cambridge with serious injuries. Police confirmed he remained in a critical but stable condition on Thursday evening. Detective Inspector Verity McCann stated: "At this stage we are speaking to people who were at the zoo at the time of this distressing incident to understand more about the circumstances. We do not believe the man arrested and the child are known to each other." Officers are supporting the boy's family at the hospital.
Zoo Response and Safety Measures
Johnson's announced on social media that the Tropical House would remain closed until further notice "out of respect to the family." The statement added: "Our thoughts and prayers are with the boy and his family following the incident that occurred today." The zoo, located in the village of Old Hurst, houses over 100 animals, including lions, tigers, sloth bears, capybaras, and meerkats. The crocodiles are kept in a tropical house facility inside a converted cattle shed.
Mike Annicelli, 52, who lives near the zoo, described the enclosure as elevated, with a raised platform and fencing about 4 feet high. He estimated the crocodiles were around 15 feet below. Local councillor Charlotte Lowe expressed shock, saying: "I can't fathom how it's happened because they've got all the right protection and safety equipment."
Ongoing Investigation
Ben Obese-Jecty, MP for Huntingdon, said he had been liaising with senior officers at Gold Command, treating this as a critical incident. He urged people to refrain from speculation online. Alastair Torrance, deputy chairman of Old Hurst Parish Council, expressed sympathy for the family. A spokesperson for Huntingdonshire District Council confirmed they are working closely with partners, including Cambridgeshire Police, and urged the public not to speculate while inquiries are ongoing.
