The family owners of a UK zoo where a horrific crocodile attack occurred have broken their silence on one of the most “distressing incidents” in the park’s history. Johnsons of Old Hurst zoo in Cambridgeshire released a statement two weeks after a toddler was critically injured in a crocodile enclosure.
The three-year-old boy was visiting the zoo with his family when he was allegedly hurled by a stranger into the enclosure and was mauled by at least one of the reptiles, police said. Zoo owner Tracey Johnson jumped into the enclosure to rescue the child. The young boy sustained critical injuries and was treated at the scene before being airlifted to hospital. Several days later, police confirmed the child’s condition had improved and he was in a stable condition.
Family Statement on Distressing Incident
On Thursday, the family that owns the zoo spoke out about the incident. “A fortnight ago, our family and team at Johnsons of Old Hurst experienced one of the most distressing incidents in our history,” the Johnsons said. “Within minutes of the first radio call, the child had been rescued from the enclosure and was receiving first aid.”
The family went on to praise everyone who was on site during the attack for acting 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,” they said. They also shared their “heartfelt thanks” for the visitors who “stepped forward to help, including off-duty paramedics and police officers, whose calm and immediate actions made a real difference”.
Staff and Community Response
“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,” the Johnsons said. The family also thanked the local community and people across the country for showing them “overwhelming” kindness following the incident. “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. Thank you for standing with us,” they said.
The Johnsons said their thoughts remain with the attack victim and his family, as they continue to pray for his “speedy recovery”.
Police Investigation and Suspect
Police arrested a 30-year-old man on suspicion of attempted murder over the incident. The suspect is believed to have learning disabilities and had been on a trip to the zoo with carers, according to the BBC. He was released on bail with police reporting he was “assessed as not being fit for interview”.
