The family behind the zoo where a three-year-old boy sustained serious injuries after being attacked by a crocodile have described the incident as “one of the most distressing incidents in our history”.
The boy had entered the crocodile enclosure at Johnsons of Old Hurst near Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire, on 18 June before he was rescued by staff at the zoo. He remains in hospital in a stable condition.
In a statement released on Thursday, the zoo praised the “incredible speed and determination” of those who helped him, and said it had been an “incredibly difficult time” for them.
“Everyone who was on site that day acted with incredible speed and determination,” the post on social media said.
“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.”
A 30-year-old man from Norfolk was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder following the incident and was later bailed as police said he was “assessed as not being fit for interview”.
The suspect in the case reportedly has learning difficulties and had been on a trip with carers.
Johnsons of Old Hurst expressed their “heartfelt thanks to the visitors who stepped forward to help, including off-duty paramedics and police officers”.
They said their “calm and immediate actions made a real difference”.
The attraction added: “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.”
They continued: “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.”
It comes the day after the boy’s family issued a statement thanking the staff at the zoo who rescued him.
They added: “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.”
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