A three-year-old boy remains in hospital in a critical condition after ending up in the crocodile enclosure at Johnsons of Old Hurst zoo in Cambridgeshire. A 30-year-old man has been bailed on suspicion of attempted murder following the incident.
Police Investigation Continues
Police were called to the zoo at 1:24 PM on June 19 by the ambulance service after reports that the boy had sustained serious injuries. He was rescued by zoo personnel, given emergency medical care at the scene, and then transported to hospital, where he remains in a critical but stable condition.
The 30-year-old man, who is from Norfolk and has no connection to the victim, was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder. He has been released on bail until September 18. Detectives from the Major Crime Unit at Cambridgeshire Constabulary continue to investigate.
Eyewitness Accounts
Eyewitnesses reported that zoo owner Tracey Johnson jumped into the enclosure to rescue the child. One local told The Sun: "Apparently, the wife of the zoo owner, Tracey Johnson, jumped in to the enclosure to save the child."
Zoo Statement
The zoo confirmed that its Tropical House will remain closed "out of respect" for the boy's family. In a statement, the zoo added: "Our thoughts and prayers are with the boy and his family following the incident that occurred today."
Police Appeal
Det Insp Verity McCann said: "Our enquiries are ongoing as we continue to understand the circumstances surrounding this distressing incident. Our thoughts remain with the boy, and his family and specialist officers continue to support them through this difficult time."
