A 30-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after a three-year-old boy was thrown into a crocodile enclosure at a zoo in Cambridgeshire. The toddler, who is not known to the suspect, suffered serious injuries and is in a critical but stable condition at Addenbrooke's Hospital.
Immediate Action & Core Facts
Cambridgeshire Police confirmed the arrest of a 30-year-old man from Norfolk following the incident at Johnsons of Old Hurst, a family-owned zoo near Huntingdon. The boy was rushed to the hospital shortly after the attack, which occurred around 1:30 PM local time. Police have stated that the man and the child are not known to each other.
Deeper Dive & Context
The zoo, which also operates as a farm shop, tea room, and steakhouse, houses over 100 animals, including lions, tigers, and crocodiles. Detective Inspector Verity McCann emphasized that officers are speaking to witnesses to understand the circumstances of the incident. Specially trained officers are supporting the boy's family at the hospital.
Local MP Ben Obese-Jecty expressed his condolences, urging the public to avoid speculation as the investigation continues. The zoo remains open, though a heavy police presence was reported at the scene following the incident.