The parents of a three-year-old boy who was allegedly thrown into a crocodile enclosure at a UK zoo have spoken publicly for the first time, revealing their son has undergone five surgeries and faces at least two more. The incident occurred two weeks ago at Johnsons of Old Hurst zoo in Cambridgeshire, where the boy was visiting with his family. He was allegedly thrown by a 30-year-old man into a habitat housing multiple crocodiles before being rescued by zoo owner Tracey Johnson, who jumped into the enclosure.
Boy's Condition and Surgeries
The boy sustained critical injuries and was airlifted to hospital after being treated at the scene. Several days later, police confirmed his condition had improved to stable. In a statement posted to a GoFundMe page, his parents said: “We have been living at the hospital for two weeks now and our son has undergone five surgeries. At this moment in time we know that our son is to undergo at least two more surgeries, one of those surgeries being a nerve reconstruction in his arm.” They described the past two weeks as a “very uncertain and unsettling time” and noted that the full extent of his injuries—particularly regarding feeling, movement, and function in both arms, wrists, and hands—will only be known after casts and bandages are removed and rehabilitation begins.
Suspect and Safeguarding Investigation
Police arrested a 30-year-old man on suspicion of attempted murder. The suspect, who is believed to have learning disabilities, was on a trip to the zoo with carers, according to the BBC. He was released on bail after being assessed as unfit for interview. Norfolk County Council has launched a “safeguarding inquiry” into the care provided to the disabled man, amid concerns of neglect. Such investigations are triggered when there are concerns of abuse, neglect, or risk of harm to vulnerable individuals. The inquiry will examine the support he received from carers at the scene.
Zoo Owners' Response
The family that owns the zoo spoke out on Thursday, praising the response of staff and visitors during what they called “one of the most distressing incidents in our history.” They stated: “Within minutes of the first radio call, the child had been rescued from the enclosure and was receiving first aid.” They also thanked off-duty paramedics and police officers among the visitors who helped, and expressed pride in their staff for responding without hesitation. The Johnsons expressed gratitude for the overwhelming kindness from the local community and people across the country.
Family's Gratitude and Ongoing Needs
The boy’s parents thanked donors to the GoFundMe campaign, which was set up to support the family with expenses including mortgage payments, car costs, food, and bills, especially as they also have a newborn baby to care for. “We are extremely grateful for everyone’s generosity. We could never thank you enough for the support you have given our family in this horrible time,” they said. The family remains at the hospital as the boy continues his recovery.
