Child Critically Injured at Cambridgeshire Zoo
A three-year-old boy sustained critical injuries following an incident within a crocodile enclosure at Johnsons of Old Hurst, a zoo situated near Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire. According to Andy Johnson, the zoo's owner, his wife, Tracey, bravely entered the enclosure to rescue the child.
The boy is currently in a critical but stable condition at Addenbrooke's Hospital in Cambridge. Cambridgeshire Police were alerted to the incident at approximately 13:24 BST on Thursday and are investigating whether the injuries resulted from a fall or an animal attack.
Arrest Made in Connection with Incident
Authorities have arrested a 30-year-old man from Norfolk on suspicion of attempted murder. Police have indicated that the arrested individual is not believed to be known to the injured child. Huntingdon MP Ben Obese-Jecty has urged the public to avoid online speculation as police categorize this as a "critical incident."
A critical care team from Magpas Air Ambulance responded to the scene at 13:42 BST, providing treatment before transporting the boy to the hospital.
Zoo Temporarily Closes Tropical House
In response to the incident, Johnsons of Old Hurst has closed its Tropical House, which houses the crocodile enclosure, "out of respect to the family." The zoo expressed its thoughts and prayers for the boy and his family.
The crocodiles at Johnsons of Old Hurst, a family-run farm since 2006, are kept in a converted cattle barn. This facility features elevated walkways with metal fencing, offering views of large water pools surrounded by tropical vegetation. The site, which also includes a butcher, farm shop, tea room, and steakhouse, was preparing to open a new museum to commemorate the 20th anniversary of its first farm shop, though the status of this event remains uncertain.
Source: BBC News