Boy Critically Injured in Zoo Incident
A three-year-old boy is in a critical but stable condition after sustaining serious injuries in a crocodile enclosure at Johnsons of Old Hurst near Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire. The incident occurred on Thursday during a family visit to the zoo.
Investigation Underway, One Arrest Made
Cambridgeshire Police have arrested a 30-year-old man in connection with the incident on suspicion of attempted murder. The man, who has not been identified, was later released on bail until September 18. Authorities stated he is believed to have learning disabilities and was assessed as unfit for interview. Police do not believe he knew the child.
Details of the Incident and Rescue
The toddler was reportedly attacked by at least one crocodile. Andy Johnson, who operates the zoo, informed the BBC that his wife, Tracey Johnson, bravely entered the enclosure to rescue the boy. Police confirmed that zoo staff pulled the child out and are working to determine how long he was inside the enclosure. A friend of the Johnsons, Chris Newman, praised Tracey Johnson's courage, noting she was not injured in the rescue.
The Zoo and Enclosure
Johnsons of Old Hurst, located in Old Hurst village, is a licensed facility that includes a farm, café, butcher's shop, and a zoo with over 100 animals, including lions, tigers, and various crocodilians. The crocodile house, built in 2009, features Nile crocodiles, broad-snouted caiman, and American alligators, housed in a converted barn with metal-fenced, elevated walkways. Visitors described the enclosure as having "quite high fences" and "steel mesh fencing" around the viewing platform.
Aftermath and Official Response
Emergency services, including ambulances and the Magpas Air Ambulance, responded to the scene, treating the child before transporting him to Addenbrooke's Hospital. Specially trained officers are providing support to the boy's family. Police have confirmed that the crocodiles involved have not been seized or euthanized. The zoo's Tropical House, where the incident occurred, has been closed out of respect for the family.
Local authorities, including Councillor Charlotte Lowe and Police and Crime Commissioner Darryl Preston, expressed shock and offered their thoughts to the family. Huntingdonshire District Council confirmed that the zoo's license was renewed in 2024 following a statutory inspection and that no previous safety-related incidents involving the crocodile enclosure had been reported. The council's environmental health team is in communication with zoo management to consider any necessary follow-up actions.
Source: Child attacked by crocodile critical two days on: Here's what we know so far