A man suspected of attempted murder in connection with a child being found in a crocodile enclosure at a zoo has been released on bail due to being deemed unfit for questioning.
The 30-year-old individual, hailing from Norfolk, was apprehended on Thursday following an incident where the zoo owner intervened to save a severely injured three-year-old boy from the reptile pen. The man, unrelated to the toddler, was deemed unfit for interrogation and has been bailed until September 18 by Cambridgeshire Police. The child, from Cambridgeshire, remains hospitalized in critical but stable condition at Addenbrooke’s Hospital after the incident at Johnson’s of Old Hurst near Huntingdon.
An unnamed local resident reported that Tracey Johnson, who co-owns the zoo with her husband Andy, bravely entered the enclosure to rescue the child. According to police, the child was attacked by a crocodile. Chris Newman, director of the national center for reptile welfare, praised Tracey’s heroic actions, describing her as a brave and strong individual.
The Johnson family, including Tracey and Andy, were observed conversing with zoo staff on Friday. The couple’s sons were also seen assisting at the establishment. Mrs. Johnson, seen holding a bouquet of red roses, chose not to provide a statement.
The injured boy, transported to Addenbrooke’s Hospital with severe wounds, remains in critical but stable condition, as confirmed by authorities. A 30-year-old man from Norfolk is under detainment for suspected attempted murder, according to the police.
Detective Inspector Verity McCann mentioned ongoing inquiries with zoo visitors to ascertain more details about the incident. She emphasized that there is no known connection between the arrested man and the child. Police officers are supporting the child’s family at the hospital.
In a social media post, Johnson’s announced the closure of the Tropical House out of respect for the affected family until further notice. They expressed sympathy and solidarity with the boy and his family following the distressing event.
Emergency services dispatched an ambulance, rapid response vehicle, ambulance officer vehicle, and an air ambulance to the scene. An officer was stationed at the site’s entrance on Thursday evening, with a marked police vehicle in the vicinity.
Situated in a serene village setting, Johnson’s features various amenities such as a tea room, farm shop, and steakhouse in addition to its collection of over 100 animals, including crocodiles, lions, and tigers. The crocodiles are housed in a tropical setting within a converted cattle shed, while other animals are accommodated in outdoor enclosures.
The Johnson family has specialized in caring for crocodiles for the past 20 years. Andy Johnson, the current owner, has contributed to a European publication concerning the farming and welfare of crocodilians.
Despite the unfortunate incident, neighbor Mike Annicelli affirmed feeling safe during previous visits to the zoo, noting the elevated enclosures and safety measures in place. Local councillor Charlotte Lowe expressed bewilderment at the circumstances surrounding the child’s access to the crocodile enclosure, emphasizing the shock felt by the community.
Political figures such as Ben Obese-Jecty, the MP for Huntingdon, and Alastair Torrance, deputy chairman of Old Hurst Parish Council, extended their sympathies and emphasized the need to avoid speculation while investigations are ongoing.
Huntingdonshire District Council acknowledged the severity of the incident at Johnson’s of Old Hurst, extending thoughts to the young boy and his family during this challenging period. Collaboration with law enforcement and a plea for patience during the inquiry process were emphasized.
