A three-year-old boy is fighting for his life after being thrown into a crocodile enclosure at a family zoo in Huntingdonshire, United Kingdom. The incident took place at Johnson's of Old Hurst zoo, where emergency services were called at approximately 1:24 p.m. following reports that a child had entered the crocodile pen.
Child Rescued and Hospitalized
The young boy was rescued from the enclosure and rushed to Addenbrooke's Hospital with serious injuries. He remains in critical but stable condition under medical care. Police have arrested a 30-year-old man from Norfolk on suspicion of attempted murder, and detectives from the major crime unit have launched a full investigation.
Police Investigation Underway
Detective Inspector Verity McCann stated that officers are speaking with witnesses who were at the zoo at the time to establish the exact sequence of events. “At this stage we are speaking to people who were at the zoo at the time of this distressing incident to understand more about the circumstances,” she said. McCann added that investigators do not believe the suspect and the child were known to each other. She also confirmed that officers are providing support to the boy's family at the hospital.
Details of the Zoo Enclosure
Authorities have not disclosed the species or number of crocodiles involved in the enclosure. Johnson's of Old Hurst zoo houses several crocodiles along with other exotic animals, including big cats and bears. The zoo recently celebrated International Crocodile Day, describing crocodilians as central to its history and development.
Police investigations are ongoing, and no further details have been released at this time.
