Family of boy attacked by crocodile thank Cambridgeshire zoo staff

The family of a three-year-old boy who was seriously injured after ending up in a crocodile enclosure have thanked zoo staff for rescuing their child.

The boy was attacked by at least one crocodile, the BBC understands, following an incident at Johnsons of Old Hurst near Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire, on 18 June.

In a statement issued through Cambridgeshire Police, the family said: “We would like to thank the staff at the zoo who rescued our son from the enclosure… our attention remains focused on his recovery and supporting him through this extremely challenging and prolonged period of time.”

Police have arrested and bailed a 30-year-old man on suspicion of attempted murder.

Police said the boy remained in Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge in a stable condition.

The family’s statement added: “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.”

Police said the boy, who was from Cambridgeshire and visiting the zoo with his family, sustained serious injuries “while in the enclosure” and was pulled out by zoo staff.

A spokesperson for the force said: “A fundraising page has been set up to support the boy’s recovery and rehabilitation, as well as to provide the family with financial stability while they support him in hospital and throughout the coming months.”

Police said the family wished to remain anonymous.

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