Authorities have apprehended a man in connection with a critical incident at a local zoo, where a three-year-old boy sustained severe injuries after entering a crocodile enclosure. The arrest was made on suspicion of attempted murder.
Incident Details and Police Response
Law enforcement responded to Johnson’s Zoo in Old Hurst, near Huntingdon, at approximately 1:24 PM. The young boy was transported to Addenbrooke’s Hospital with life-threatening injuries. Officials report he is currently in a stable condition.
A 30-year-old man from Norfolk has been taken into custody. Investigators have stated that initial findings suggest the arrested individual and the child were not known to each other.
Emergency Services on Scene
The East of England Ambulance Service confirmed that a multi-vehicle response was dispatched, including an ambulance, a rapid response vehicle, an ambulance officer vehicle, and the Magpas Air Ambulance. A spokesperson for the service noted, “A child was transported by road to hospital for further care.”
Ongoing Investigation
Detective Inspector Verity McCann of Cambridgeshire Police outlined the current investigative approach. “At this stage we are speaking to people who were at the zoo at the time of this distressing incident to understand more about the circumstances,” she stated. “Officers are supporting the boy’s family at hospital, and our thoughts remain with them.”
Community Reaction
Local Member of Parliament Ben Obese-Jecty addressed the incident on social media, expressing his deepest sympathies. “Thoughts were with the young victim and his family during a hugely traumatic and difficult time,” he wrote, urging the public to “refrain from speculation online.” He further indicated he was “liaising with senior officers at Gold Command who are treating this as a critical incident.”
Zoo Information
Johnson’s Zoo’s website highlights its collection of over 100 animals, which includes crocodiles, African lions, and a Bengal tiger.
