The owners of Johnsons of Old Hurst zoo have spoken publicly for the first time about the harrowing rescue of a three-year-old boy who was bitten by a crocodile after allegedly being thrown into the enclosure by a stranger.
Rescue from the Crocodile Pit
Tracey Johnson, 55, pulled the toddler from the 15-foot enclosure housing deadly crocodiles after he was thrown in last month. Her husband Andrew, 56, and their son Edward, 29, also helped in the rescue. The child has since undergone multiple surgeries at a children's hospital.
In a statement, the family described the incident as 'one of the most distressing in our history.' They said: '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.'
Emergency Response and Community Support
The emergency services, including the MAGPAS Air Ambulance, arrived quickly. The family thanked off-duty paramedics and police officers who were among the visitors that helped. '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,' they added.
The Johnsons expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support from the local community and across the country. '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.'
Suspect Arrested and Ongoing Recovery
A 30-year-old man described as 'mentally disabled' was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder following the incident. He has been released on bail until September after police said he was 'not fit for interview.'
The family concluded: '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.'
