Johnsons of Old Hurst zoo near Huntingdon has fully reopened its entire site, including the crocodile attraction, just nine days after a three-year-old boy was allegedly thrown into a 15ft-deep crocodile enclosure, suffering serious injuries. The zoo announced the reopening on June 27 via a public statement: 'As of this weekend, our whole site will be fully open, thank you.'
Incident Details and Rescue
The boy was visiting the zoo with his family when a man, described as 'mentally disabled,' broke away from his carers and allegedly threw the child into the crocodile pit. The zoo owner's wife, Tracey, jumped into the enclosure to rescue the boy, and was assisted by her husband Andy and their youngest son Edward, according to Chris Newman, director of the National Centre for Reptile Welfare, who spoke to the BBC.
Suspect and Carers
The suspect, who reportedly has hearing difficulties and was accompanied by two carers, was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder but was released on bail after being deemed 'not fit for interview' by police. A witness at the zoo said the carers were 'on their phones' and not paying attention. 'They were English and chatting among themselves and on their phones,' the witness told Metro. The suspect has been bailed until September 18.
Data Breach Investigation
Separately, Cambridge University Hospitals has launched an investigation after up to 40 staff accessed the boy's medical details following his admission to Addenbrooke's Hospital. The hospital has referred itself to the Information Commissioner's Office regarding the data breach.
