Suspect Released on Bail as Family of Boy Injured in Crocodile Enclosure Incident Remains at Hospital
The family of the three-year-old boy seriously injured after being thrown into a crocodile enclosure at a Cambridgeshire zoo says they have been living at the hospital as their son undergoes multiple surgeries, while the criminal investigation continues with the suspect released on police bail.
The incident, which occurred on June 18 at Johnsons of Old Hurst near Huntingdon, remains under investigation by Cambridgeshire Police. A 30-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder but has since been released on bail while detectives continue their inquiries. He is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.
In an update shared through a fundraising page established to support the child’s recovery, the boy’s parents described the difficult weeks they have spent at Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge.
“We have been living at the hospital for two weeks now,” they wrote.
The family revealed that their son has already undergone five operations since the incident and is expected to require at least two additional procedures as doctors continue treating his injuries.
According to the family, the toddler suffered a fractured pelvis, a broken arm, and other serious injuries after falling approximately 15 feet into the enclosure before sustaining injuries believed to have been caused by a crocodile.
Medical specialists continue monitoring his condition and planning further treatment, including reconstructive procedures and long-term rehabilitation.
The parents also thanked members of the public for the support they have received since the attack.
“We are extremely grateful for everyone’s generosity,” they said. “We could never thank you enough for the support you have given our family in this horrible time.”
The fundraising campaign established following the incident has raised more than £25,000 to help the family with medical, travel, and living expenses while their son remains hospitalized.
Meanwhile, the criminal investigation continues.
Cambridgeshire Police arrested the 30-year-old suspect shortly after the incident on suspicion of attempted murder. Authorities later announced that he had been released on bail after medical assessments concluded he was not fit to undergo a formal police interview at that stage.
Police have not disclosed specific medical information but have indicated that the suspect has significant learning disabilities. Investigators have said further interviews will be considered when appropriate as the investigation progresses.
His bail is currently scheduled to run until September while detectives continue gathering evidence.
The investigation has expanded beyond the criminal inquiry.
Norfolk County Council has opened a safeguarding investigation into the care arrangements surrounding the suspect, who was visiting the zoo with two carers on the day of the incident.
The review will examine whether appropriate supervision and support were provided and whether any safeguarding concerns require further action. Council officials have also confirmed they are reviewing the care provider involved and assessing services provided to other individuals supported by the organization.
Witness statements, CCTV footage, forensic evidence, and accounts from zoo staff continue to form part of the police investigation.
Authorities have not released further details about the evidence collected, emphasizing that the inquiry remains active.
The owners of Johnsons of Old Hurst have praised the rapid actions of employees and emergency responders who helped rescue the child from the enclosure within minutes.
They described the incident as one of the most traumatic events in the zoo’s history and thanked police, ambulance crews, and the MAGPAS Air Ambulance for their swift response.
As investigators continue their work, the family’s focus remains on their son’s recovery.
Doctors say the child still faces additional surgeries and months of rehabilitation before the long-term impact of his injuries can be fully assessed.
While the legal process continues, the parents say their priority is staying by their son’s bedside and supporting him through what is expected to be a lengthy recovery.
