Johnsons of Old Hurst, a zoo near Huntingdon in Cambridgeshire, has fully reopened to the public, including its crocodile and alligator enclosure, just nine days after a three-year-old boy was mauled in the exhibit. The zoo had remained open after the incident but kept the crocodile enclosure shut while the child was in critical condition.
The boy, who was visiting the zoo with his mother and a baby, is believed to have been lifted over a four-foot security fence and dropped into the pit. He sustained a broken arm and pelvis and was reportedly attacked by at least one crocodile after falling onto concrete and into the water.
Zoo owner Tracey Johnson, her husband Andy, and son Edward reportedly entered the pit to rescue the boy. Staff also intervened.
A 30-year-old man was arrested at the scene on suspicion of attempted murder. He was later bailed and released pending further investigation, with police stating he was not fit for interview at the time. The man is understood to have learning difficulties and was at the zoo with two carers. Witnesses reported that the carers were distracted, using their phones and walking behind the man, who allegedly attempted to leave the scene with them after the incident. Another staff member reportedly prevented their departure.
The child's condition has since stabilized, and he is recovering at Addenbrooke's Hospital in Cambridge. The incident has also prompted an investigation into the access of the boy's private medical records, with up to 40 NHS hospital staff reportedly viewing them. Hospital officials have stated that robust disciplinary action, including dismissal, will be taken against any staff found to have accessed records without a legitimate clinical reason. Restrictions have been placed on the boy's medical records to enhance security.