The family of the three-year-old boy allegedly thrown into a crocodile pit at a family-run zoo in Cambridgeshire, UK, have released a statement via the Cambridgeshire Police.
Horrifying reports last month detailed how the three-year-old was allegedly picked up by a stranger and tossed into an enclosure housing crocodiles at Johnsons of Old Hurst Zoo.
The toddler was subsequently attacked by one of the reptiles that called the enclosure home, suffering serious injuries. He was rushed to Addenbrooke’s Hospital in critical condition after being rescued by the zoo’s co-owner, who is reported to have leapt into the enclosure to intervene.
Now, the boy’s family have issued a statement to thank the zoo staff for saving his life.
According to BBC News, the statement reads: “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.”
It continues: “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.”
A 30-year-old man – believed to suffer from learning difficulties – was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder before being bailed until September 18.
UK police said he was ‘assessed as not being fit for interview’.
A GoFundMe page established in the aftermath of the shocking incident revealed that the three-year-old boy had undergone ‘multiple surgeries’ and ‘is now stable, but he faces a long road to recovery’.
“His parents are currently by his side in hospital, supporting him through both immediate and ongoing care physically and psychologically,” the page continues.
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