Norfolk County Council has launched a safeguarding investigation into the carers of a mentally disabled man who threw a three-year-old boy into a crocodile enclosure at Johnsons of Old Hurst zoo in Huntingdon on June 18. The man, 30, was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and has been bailed, declared 'unfit for interview' by police. Insiders claim the carers were on their phones when the man allegedly broke away from them.
Council inquiry under Care Act 2014
The inquiry, under Section 42 of the Care Act 2014, will examine whether the suspect is being neglected or abused while in care, and whether he can protect himself. The council told The Telegraph that referrals to the service have been paused as it works with 'partners in the health and care system to identify and review all those individuals receiving care from this provider and to ensure the care they are receiving is of the quality and consistency they expect and deserve.'
After the incident, the carers reportedly tried to bundle the man into a car, but zoo staff intervened. The council is also investigating the care provider involved.
Boy's injuries and rescue
The three-year-old fell 15 feet into the crocodile pit at about 1:30 pm, where 15 crocodiles were present. At least one reptile attacked him, causing a broken arm and pelvis. Zoo owner Tracey Johnson, 55, her husband Andrew, 56, and their son Edward, 29, jumped in to rescue the boy. In a statement, the Johnsons called it 'one of the most distressing incidents in our history' and praised the rapid response of staff.
The boy is no longer in critical condition but remains hospitalized for weeks. A GoFundMe page set up by his parents reports that he has undergone five surgeries and will likely need two more. 'This uncertainty remains as we still don't know the extent of his feeling, movement and function in both of his arms, wrists and hands,' they said. 'This will only be identified after casts and bandages are able to be removed and he can begin his rehabilitation journey.'
Zoo safety and reopening
Huntingdonshire District Council visited the zoo on June 19 and deemed the incident isolated, but will require periodic inspections. The zoo's Tropical House exhibit, a repurposed cattle shed housing ancient reptiles including alligators, reopened last week. Signs at the zoo warn that children must be supervised, stating, 'These animals are real and dangerous.' The zoo also offers a £80 'meet and feed our snappy crocodile' session for over-16s or 14- and 15-year-olds with an adult.
