The owners of a zoo in Cambridgeshire have spoken publicly for the first time since a three-year-old boy was attacked by a crocodile after allegedly being thrown into its enclosure by a stranger. Andy and Tracey Johnson, who run Johnsons of Old Hurst near Huntingdon, described the incident on 18th June as "one of the most distressing" their family and staff had ever experienced.
Details of the Incident
The youngster sustained serious injuries when he was allegedly thrown approximately 15 feet into the crocodile enclosure within the zoo's Tropical House. He suffered a broken arm and a fractured pelvis after landing on a concrete walkway before ending up in the water. The boy is still receiving treatment at Addenbrooke's Hospital in Cambridge.
Cambridgeshire Police confirmed the toddler remains in a stable condition but faces a lengthy road to recovery. His family described his rehabilitation as "extremely challenging" while expressing gratitude to both the zoo and the public for their continued support.
Statement from Zoo Owners
In a statement posted on social media, Andy and Tracey Johnson 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."
They praised the rapid response of everyone on site: "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 couple also thanked emergency services, including the MAGPAS Air Ambulance, as well as off-duty paramedics and police officers who were among the visitors. They added: "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."
Community Support and Ongoing Investigation
The Johnsons acknowledged 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," they said. "Thank you for standing with us. Above all, our thoughts remain with the young boy and his family."
A 30-year-old man from Norfolk was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder following the incident. He has been released on bail until 18th September while detectives continue their enquiries. The man, who has no known connection to the victim, was reportedly deemed unfit for interview.
Reopening of the Zoo
The attraction's Tropical House reopened to visitors on Saturday, nine days after the distressing incident. The zoo had closed temporarily "out of respect to the family."
