A three-year-old boy who was seriously injured in a crocodile enclosure at a Cambridgeshire zoo is facing further surgeries and a lengthy rehabilitation, his parents have said. The family has expressed gratitude after a fundraising campaign raised over £25,000 to support them.
Five surgeries and more to come
The incident occurred on June 18 at Johnsons of Old Hurst, a zoo in Huntingdonshire. The boy's parents said they have been “living at the hospital” since the attack, with their son having already undergone five operations. They confirmed he will need at least two more surgeries. “The last two weeks have been a very uncertain and unsettling time,” they wrote in an update on the fundraising page.
Fundraising success
A GoFundMe page set up to cover the family's expenses and support the boy's recovery has raised more than £25,000. The parents said the money has helped ease financial pressure while they are both away from work. “Further donations will be used to support our son’s rehabilitation and to give back to the hospital who have helped us in many ways,” they added.
Police investigation
A 30-year-old man from Norfolk was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder following the incident. He was later bailed after being assessed as unfit for interview. Police said the suspect, who reportedly has learning difficulties, had been on a trip with carers at the time.
Hospital condition
The boy remains at Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge in a stable condition, according to Cambridgeshire Police. He sustained serious injuries after being “injured by a crocodile” in the enclosure.
Zoo staff praised
The zoo’s owners, the Johnson family, praised the “incredible speed and determination” of those who rescued the child. In a statement, they said: “Within minutes of the first radio call, the child had been rescued from the enclosure and was receiving first aid.” They thanked off-duty paramedics and police officers who helped, as well as their own staff. Co-owner Tracey Johnson reportedly jumped into the enclosure to save the boy.
Family thanks
The boy’s family thanked the zoo staff for rescuing their son. In a statement released through police, they asked for privacy and support during this difficult time. The fundraising page continues to accept donations to aid the boy’s recovery.
