The zoo, where a three-year-old child was reportedly thrown into the crocodile enclosure and attacked, has now reopened. Johnsons of Old Hurst announced that their entire facility will be accessible starting this weekend after the distressing incident that left the toddler critically injured by one of the reptiles.
Following the June 27 announcement, the zoo confirmed that all areas, including the crocodile attraction, will be fully operational. Fans of the establishment expressed their satisfaction on Instagram as the zoo resumed full operations after temporarily closing the Tropical House, which housed the crocodile enclosure, post the June 18 tragedy.
The young boy, hailing from Cambridgeshire, was rushed to the hospital in critical condition. A 30-year-old man from Norfolk was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder but was later released on bail due to being deemed unfit for questioning, as per Cambridgeshire Police. The suspect, reported to have learning disabilities, was part of a group outing with caregivers.
Despite sustaining severe injuries in the enclosure, the boy was rescued by Tracey Johnson, the zoo owner’s wife, who bravely intervened by entering the pit to save him. An investigation has been initiated after approximately 40 hospital staff members accessed the child’s medical records without authorization.
Cambridge University Hospitals (CUH) has self-referred to the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) to probe whether the staff had valid reasons for accessing the information. Police have confirmed that the child is now in stable condition, no longer critical.
Members of the Johnson family, who manage the zoo, were actively involved in the rescue operation, as noted by Chris Newman from the National Centre for Reptile Welfare. The family, deeply affected by the incident, are described as heroes by Newman, emphasizing their close bond and the emotional impact of the event.
The Johnsons of Old Hurst zoo houses over 100 animals, including lions and tigers, with the crocodile house established in 2009. Law enforcement authorities stated that none of the crocodiles were harmed or removed from the premises.
