In a harrowing turn of events, a three-year-old boy was critically injured after entering a crocodile enclosure at Johnsons of Old Hursta family-run zoo near Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire. The incident, which occurred on Thursday, June 18, 2026has led to the arrest of a 30-year-old man from Norfolk on suspicion of attempted murder.
The Cambridgeshire Police were alerted to the distressing scene at approximately 13:24 BST. Emergency services, including the East of England Ambulance Service and Magpas Air Ambulanceswiftly responded to the incident. The critically injured child was rushed to Addenbrooke’s Hospitalwhere he remains in a critical but stable condition.
The Incident and Aftermath
The zoo’s Tropical Housewhich houses the crocodiles, has been closed out of respect for the family. A spokesperson for Johnsons of Old Hurst expressed their condolences, stating, “Out of respect to the family, our Tropical House will remain closed until further notice.” The rest of the zoo remains open to the public.
The crocodiles at Johnsons of Old Hurst are kept in a converted cattle barn, featuring metal-fenced elevated walkways that overlook large pools of water surrounded by tropical vegetation. The zoo is home to over 100 fascinating animals, including African lions and a Bengal tiger.
Police Investigation and Public Response
Detective Inspector Verity McCann of Cambridgeshire Police has confirmed that the man arrested and the child are not believed to be known to each other. The police are currently investigating whether the child was attacked by the animals. “At this stage, we are speaking to people who were at the zoo at the time of this distressing incident to understand more about the circumstances.” McCann added, “Our thoughts remain with the boy’s family at this difficult time.“
Huntingdon MP Ben Obese-Jecty has also responded to the incident, urging the public to refrain from speculation. “My thoughts are with the young victim and his family during this hugely traumatic and difficult time.” Obese-Jecty stated, “I am liaising with senior officers at Gold Command who are treating this as a critical incident.“
Darryl PrestonCambridgeshire and Peterborough’s police and crime commissioner, expressed his sympathies, saying, “My thoughts go out to the family of the little boy involved in this truly horrific incident.“
Community and Authorities React
The incident has sent shockwaves through the community and beyond. The Cambridgeshire County Council has expressed their support for the victim and his family but has refrained from further comment due to the ongoing investigation.
The East of England Ambulance Service and Magpas Air Ambulance played crucial roles in responding to the incident. A critical care team from Magpas Air Ambulance attended the scene at 13:42 and treated the child before transporting him to the hospital.
As the investigation continues, the community remains in shock, and the family of the young victim is in the thoughts of many. The zoo has requested that any inquiries be directed to the Cambridgeshire Police Constabulary.
