Investigation ongoing after boy thrown into crocodile pit

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An investigation launched after a three-year-old boy was thrown into a zoo's crocodile pit remains ongoing after two months.

The toddler was rushed to hospital in critical condition after he ended up in the enclosure at Johnsons of Old Hurst, near Huntingdon, on June 18.

He had been treated at the scene after he was rescued by staff members, including the zoo's owners Andy and Tracey Johnson.

A 30-year-old man from Norfolk was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder but released just hours after his arrest.

He was assessed by detectives as being unfit for interview and bailed until September.

In an update on Monday (August 17), Cambridgeshire Police confirmed investigations into the incident remain ongoing.

A spokesperson for the force said: "No updates at the moment".

A 30-year-old man from Norfolk arrested on suspicion of attempted murder has since been bailed (Image: Joe Giddens/PA)

More than £112,000 has been raised by the toddler who remains at Addenbrooke's Hospital where he continues to recover.

On July 15, the boy's parents revealed he had undergone his seventh surgery just days after they claimed the didn't think he "was going to make it".

When the toddler first arrived at hospital, he underwent a 12-hour surgery where surgeons "performed miraculous things".

His parents detailed the horrific injuries he sustained, including tendon and nerve damage, broken bones and severe tissue damage.

It was revealed the boy was attacked by a crocodile when he ended up in the enclosure on June 18.

A source with knowledge of the situation claimed the man, believed to have learning difficulties, was visiting the zoo with two carers.

It is alleged the carers left the crocodile enclosure with the suspect after the incident but were stopped by staff members.

More than £112,000 has been raised for the toddler (Image: Joe Giddens/PA)

Other witnesses claimed the carers were "on their phones" and "weren't paying him much attention".

Norfolk County Council launched an investigation into whether the man is being neglected or abused while in care.

The local authority revealed it had launched a Section 42 inquiry and stopped referrals to the care provider in the suspect's case.

While the suspect is from the county, it is understood his care was not commissioned, provided or paid for by the council.

Johnsons of Old Hurst described the incident as "one of the most distressing" in its history.

The zoo thanked visitors who "stepped forward to help," including off-duty paramedics and police officers.

It has since been confirmed no safety concerns were indicated regarding the zoo's conditions at the time of the incident.

Have you got a story you want to share? Get in touch at oliver.murphy@newsquest.co.uk

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