Family of boy, 3, 'thrown into crocodile enclosure' share statement as update issued

The family of the three-year-old who was thrown into a crocodile enclosure last month have issued an update on his well-being.

Witnesses were left shocked on 18 June when a toddler visiting Johnson's Zoo in Old Hurst, Cambridgeshire, was allegedly thrown 15ft from a viewing platform and into a crocodile enclosure by a complete stranger.

Although it seems as if he thankfully avoided any potentially fatal bites from the powerful crocodiles, one eyewitness suggested that he suffered a broken arm and pelvis in the fall.

It has now been confirmed that the boy remains in Addenbrooke’s Hospital, Cambridge, where he is in a stable condition but faces a long road to recovery.

The family's update on the boy's condition

His family said: “We would like to thank the staff at the zoo who rescued our son from the enclosure.

“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.

It seems as if the boy was rescued before the crocodiles could attack (Johnson's Zoo)

“Our attention remains focused on his recovery and supporting him through this extremely challenging and prolonged period of time.”

A fundraiser has also been set up to support the family following the horrific incident, which could have been far worse if not for the heroic actions of Tracey Johnson, the zoo owner's wife, who jumped into the enclosure to save the young boy.

The fundraiser states: "The family are deeply grateful for the kindness, prayers, and well wishes they have received. They kindly ask that their son’s privacy is respected and that he is not identified or named in the media or on social media.

"Thank you for your generosity and support during this incredibly difficult time."

Any money from the fundraiser will go towards supporting the boy’s recovery and rehabilitation, as well as providing the family with financial stability while they support him in hospital and throughout the coming months.

Should any funds remain after meeting the family’s needs, they will be donated to charities and organisations within the Addenbrooke’s Trust which support other families facing similar challenges.

The man arrested has been bailed until mid September (Joe Giddens/PA Wire)

What is known about the man accused of throwing the boy?

Cambridgeshire Police confirmed recently that a man was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder, although he was later released on bail after being deemed 'not fit for interview'.

Speaking at the time, Detective Inspector Verity McCann said: “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.

“We do not believe the man arrested and the child are known to each other. Officers are supporting the boy’s family at hospital and our thoughts remain with them.”

Meanwhile, the 30-year-old man who was arrested has been bailed until September 18.

DI McCann added: "Our enquiries are ongoing as we continue to understand the circumstances surrounding this distressing incident.

“Our thoughts remain with the boy, and his family and specialist officers continue to support them through this difficult time.”