The owners of Johnsons of Old Hurst near Huntingdon have spoken out for the first time since the crocodile enclosure incident
The proprietors of a zoo where a three-year-old boy was attacked by a crocodile after reportedly being thrown into its enclosure by a stranger have released a heartbreaking statement.
Andy and Tracey Johnson, who operate Johnsons of Old Hurst near Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire, described the incident as “one of the most distressing” their family and staff had ever faced. The couple have broken their silence on the incident for the first time, expressing gratitude to emergency services, visitors and their own team for their rapid response on June 18, while confirming their thoughts remain with the young boy and his family as he continues to recover.
The youngster remains at Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge following serious injuries sustained when he was reportedly thrown approximately 15ft 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 falling into the water, reports the Express.
In a statement posted on social media, Andy and Tracey 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.
“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 emergency services arrived very quickly, supported by the MAGPAS Air Ambulance, and we cannot thank them enough for their professionalism, compassion and dedication in such difficult circumstances.
“We would also like to express our heartfelt thanks to the visitors who stepped forward to help, including off-duty paramedics and police officers, whose calm and immediate actions made a real difference. 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 couple went on to express their gratitude for the kindness shown by the local community and people across the country, describing the outpouring of support as “overwhelming”.
They added: “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. Above all, our thoughts remain with the young boy and his family.
“We continue to hope and pray for his speedy recovery and ask that they are given the privacy, compassion and support they need at this time.”
Cambridgeshire Police confirmed the toddler remains in a stable condition at Addenbrooke’s Hospital, though faces a lengthy recovery ahead. His family described his rehabilitation as “extremely challenging” and extended their thanks to both the zoo and members of the public for their ongoing support.
A 30-year-old man from Norfolk was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder in connection with the incident, before subsequently being released on bail until 18 September while detectives continue their enquiries. The man, who has no known connection to the victim, was reportedly assessed as not being fit for interview.
The Tropical House welcomed visitors back on Saturday, nine days following the distressing incident. The attraction had shut its doors “out of respect to the family”.




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