Andy and Tracey Johnson, the owners of Johnsons of Old Hurst zoo in Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire, have broken their silence after a three-year-old boy was allegedly thrown into a crocodile enclosure by a stranger. The incident occurred on June 18, leaving the child with severe injuries, including a broken arm and pelvis, after falling 15 feet onto a concrete walkway and then into the water.
Zoo Owners Describe 'Distressing' Incident
In a statement released on July 2, the Johnsons described the event as "one of the most distressing incidents in our history." They 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.”
The couple praised the swift response of staff and visitors, including off-duty paramedics and police officers, who helped rescue the child within minutes of the first radio call. The boy was immediately given first aid before being airlifted to Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge, where he remains for treatment.
Community Support and Ongoing Investigation
The Johnsons expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support from the local community and across the country. “The kindness we have received from our local community and from people across the country has been overwhelming. Every message of support, every kind word and every expression of concern has meant a great deal,” they said.
They added: “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.”
The incident is under investigation by Cambridgeshire Police, who have arrested a man on suspicion of attempted murder. The zoo remains open but has increased security measures.
