The family of a three-year-old boy who was seriously injured after allegedly being thrown into a crocodile pit has spoken out about his condition for the first time.
The child has had multiple surgeries after he fell 15ft into the enclosure while visiting Johnsons of Old Hurst zoo near Huntingdon with his family.
A ‘mentally disabled’ man, who broke away from his carers, was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder but was released on bail after being described as ‘not being fit for interview’ by police.
The boy’s family has now released a statement praising the zoo staff who pulled him to safety.
His family said: ‘We would like to thank the staff at the zoo who rescued our son from the enclosure.
‘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.’
The boy remains in Addenbrooke’s Hospital, Cambridge, in a stable condition and faces a long road to recovery, Cambridgshire Constabulary added.
The child was rescued by zoo owner Tracey Johnson, 55, as well as her zookeeper husband Andrew, 56, and their 29-year-old son Edward, who all jumped in to save him.
A fundraising page has also been set up on behalf of the family to support the boy’s recovery.
Fundraising organiser Lucy Lockett revealed the boy had undergone ‘multiple surgeries’ but still ‘faces a long road to recovery’.
Lockett added: ‘His parents are currently by his side in hospital, supporting him through both immediate and ongoing care physically and psychologically.’