UMVA has learned that a shocking incident at a zoo has sparked widespread outrage, and a company's response to it has only added fuel to the fire.
A three-year-old child was airlifted to a hospital and remains in a critical but stable condition after being thrown into a crocodile pit at a zoo. The child's ordeal began when someone threw them into the enclosure, and zoo owner Andy Johnson's wife, Tracey, bravely jumped in to save them.
The incident has raised questions about safety and accountability, and now a company called Wowcher has faced severe backlash for sending out a marketing email that mocked the incident. The email's subject line was deemed "absolutely shocking" and "unacceptable," prompting a swift apology from Wowcher.
In a statement, a Wowcher spokesperson expressed deep regret, saying, "We are extremely sorry for an email subject line sent by Wowcher yesterday. The wording was unacceptable. It should never have been written; it was never approved for use." The company has promised to review its processes and strengthen its creative, approval, and sign-off safeguards.
Sources have confirmed to UMVA that the child's family has been through an unimaginably difficult time, and many people have taken to social media to express their outrage and disgust at Wowcher's email. One person asked, "Jesus what made them think that was ok!" while another said, "I am utterly disgusted with their post. Someone should be sacked!"
The incident is still under investigation, with police reviewing CCTV footage and interviewing staff and witnesses. A 30-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and released on bail until September. The suspect has been deemed "unfit for interview" by police.
As the investigation continues, many are calling for greater accountability and safety measures to prevent such incidents in the future. The zoo's owners and staff have been praised for their bravery and swift response, but the role of the child's carers has also come under scrutiny.
UMVA can exclusively reveal that the incident has left many in the community shaken and has raised important questions about safety, accountability, and the responsible treatment of vulnerable individuals.
