Family of boy (3) attacked by crocodile thank 'extraordinary bravery' of those nearby and fundraiser launched for his care
A fundraising campaign has been launched to support a boy (3) attacked by a crocodile at a Huntingdonshire zoo.
The boy, who police say ‘ended up’ in the crocodile enclosure at Johnsons of Old Hurst near Huntingdon on June 18, suffered serios injuries in the incident.
The boy remains in Addenbrooke’s Hospital in a stable condition and faces a long road to recovery. His family have stated that he now faces a ‘long road to recovery.’
His family have now released a statement thanking staff at the zoo- who dived in to save the boy- as well as members of the public for all of their well wishes.
His family said: “We would like to thank the staff at the zoo who rescued our son from the enclosure.
“We are truly grateful for the public support and well-wishes we have received, as well as to everyone who has been directly involved in our son's care and recovery in hospital.
“Our attention remains focused on his recovery and supporting him through this extremely challenging and prolonged period of time.”
A fundraising page has been set up to support the boy’s recovery and rehabilitation, as well as to provide the family with financial stability while they support him in hospital and throughout the coming months.
Should any funds remain after meeting the family’s needs, they will be donated to charities and organisations within the Addenbrooke’s Trust which support other families facing similar challenges.
A further update on the page reads: “After undergoing multiple surgeries, his condition is now stable, but he faces a long road to recovery. His parents are currently by his side in hospital, supporting him through both immediate and ongoing care physically and psychologically.
“Every donation, no matter the size, will support the family by giving them the financial stability they need as they navigate through this difficult time . It will also support their son’s further recovery and rehabilitation in the upcoming months and years ahead
“The family are deeply grateful for the kindness, prayers, and well wishes they have received. They kindly ask that their son’s privacy is respected and that he is not identified or named in the media or on social media.
“Thank you for your generosity and support during this incredibly difficult time.”
Johnsons of Old Hurst fully reopened its site on Saturday (June 27) after the Tropical House, housing the crocodiles, was closed out of respect for the boy’s family after the incident.
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.