Huntingdonshire zoo releases statement following 'one of the most distressing incidents' in its history
A Huntingdonshire zoo has released a statement thanking members of the community for their support following ‘on on the most distressing incidents’ in their history.
Johnsons of Old Hurst was thrust into the spotlight following a shocking incident which was a man arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and the Johnson family having to dive into the crocodile enclosure to save a three-year-old boy.
The boy has been in hospital ever since the incident on June 18 and has undergone five surgeries as doctors battle to save the function and feeling in his arms.
The Tropical House was closed for nine days but the site has now fully reopened.
Reflecting on the events on the recent weeks, the Johnson family have now decided to speak out.
A statement said: “A fortnight ago out family and team at Johnsons of Old Hurst experiences 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.
"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.
"The emergency services arrived very quickly, supported by the MAGPAS Air Ambulance, and we cannot thank them enough for their professionalism, compassion and dedication in such difficult circumstances.
"We would also like to express our heartfelt thanks to the visitors who stepped forward to help, including off-duty paramedics and police officers whose calm and immediate actions made a real difference."
" 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.
"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 to our family and our team during an incredibly difficult time. Thank you for standing with us.
"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."
A Go Fund Me to support the boy’s recovery has raised over £40,000. To donate, visit: www.gofundme.com/f/helping-the-family-of-3yr-old-injured-in-crocodile-enclosure.
A 30-year-old man from Norfolk was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder but police then placed him on bail, until September 18, after deeming him unfit for interview.