UMVA has learned that a dramatic rescue unfolded at a zoo in Huntingdon, where a three-year-old child was thrown into an enclosure housing crocodiles.
The child's parents, zoo staff members Andrew and Tracey Johnson, sprang into action, managing to wrestle the child from the crocodile's grip and bring him to safety. The incident has left the community shaken and authorities scrambling for answers.
A 30-year-old man from Norfolk was taken into custody on suspicion of attempted murder, but was bailed until September 18 after being deemed unfit for interview. The suspect is believed to have hearing difficulties and relies on two carers, who were allegedly distracted during the incident.
According to eyewitnesses, the suspect was accompanied by his carers, who were reportedly "on their phones" and not paying close attention to him. A witness described the scene, saying the carers were chatting among themselves and seemed oblivious to the suspect's actions.
The child suffered a terrifying ordeal, attacked by at least one crocodile, believed to be either a Nile or saltwater crocodile. The latter is notorious for having the strongest bite of any living animal, making the child's survival all the more remarkable.
Police were swiftly called to the scene, and the ambulance service provided critical care for the child's injuries. The victim remains in critical but stable condition at a hospital, with specialist officers providing support to the family during this difficult time.
Detective Inspector Verity McCann confirmed that Cambridgeshire Constabulary's Major Crime Unit is conducting an in-depth investigation into the incident, working tirelessly to piece together the events surrounding the attack.
