A wildlife park in Cambridgeshire has expressed gratitude to its staff, emergency responders and visitors who acted swiftly after a three-year-old boy was seriously injured when he was allegedly thrown into a crocodile enclosure.
Johnsons of Old Hurst described the incident as one of the most traumatic events in its history, praising everyone involved for their rapid response while extending continued support to the injured child and his family.
Staff and Visitors Responded Within Minutes
The incident occurred on June 18 at the zoo’s Tropical House, where the child reportedly fell into the reptile enclosure after being thrown over a safety barrier.
According to the zoo, staff members immediately responded after receiving an emergency radio call, rescuing the boy from the enclosure within minutes before administering first aid.
Emergency medical teams, including the MAGPAS Air Ambulance, soon arrived to continue treatment before the child was airlifted to Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge.
Zoo Commends Emergency Services and Public
In a public statement, zoo officials thanked paramedics, police officers and visitors who stepped in to assist during the emergency.
The organisation said off-duty emergency personnel who happened to be at the attraction played an important role alongside zoo employees by remaining calm and providing immediate assistance until medical crews assumed responsibility.
Management also expressed appreciation for the overwhelming support received from the local community and members of the public since the incident.
Owners Among Those Who Rescued Child
Reports indicate that zoo owners Andy and Tracey Johnson, together with members of their family, entered the enclosure during the rescue operation to help retrieve the injured child.
Mrs. Johnson has since been widely praised for her actions after reportedly climbing into the enclosure and carrying the boy to safety through a keeper access point before further assistance arrived.
Child Undergoes Multiple Surgeries
The toddler suffered severe injuries after reportedly being attacked by one of the crocodiles inside the enclosure.
Medical updates indicate he sustained multiple traumatic injuries, including fractures to his pelvis and arm, and has undergone several surgical procedures.
Although his condition has stabilised, family supporters say he faces an extended period of physical and psychological recovery.
Family Thanks Rescuers for Saving Son
The boy’s family has publicly acknowledged the efforts of zoo employees and healthcare professionals who cared for their son following the incident.
In a statement, they thanked the rescue teams, hospital staff and members of the public for their compassion and support while requesting privacy as they focus on the child’s recovery.
A fundraising campaign launched to assist with medical expenses and rehabilitation has attracted more than £22,000 in donations.
Police Investigation Continues
Cambridgeshire Police arrested a 30-year-old man from Norfolk at the scene on suspicion of attempted murder.
Authorities said the suspect is not known to the victim and was later released on bail while detectives continue their investigation.
Police confirmed the man was assessed as unfit for interview, and officers are reviewing CCTV footage from the zoo to establish the full sequence of events.
Additional Inquiries Underway
Separate investigations have also been launched into aspects surrounding the case.
The Care Quality Commission is examining the care arrangements involving the suspect, who is reported to have learning difficulties.
Meanwhile, NHS authorities are investigating reports that dozens of hospital staff may have improperly accessed the injured child’s confidential medical records.
Witnesses Describe Chaotic Scene
Visitors recalled hearing screams shortly after the incident unfolded during a busy afternoon at the attraction.
Witnesses reported seeing emergency helicopters arrive within minutes as sections of the zoo were screened from public view while first responders treated the child.
Some visitors also described seeing carers accompanying the suspect before the incident, although investigators have not publicly commented on those accounts.
Crocodile Exhibit Reopens as Recovery Continues
The enclosure involved in the incident houses several crocodiles and alligators, including large Nile crocodiles measuring up to 11 feet in length.
Despite the incident, the exhibit has since reopened to visitors while investigations remain ongoing.
Zoo management said its primary concern remains the recovery of the injured boy, expressing hope that he and his family receive the support and privacy they need during the months ahead.
