UK Zoo Child Attack Leaves 3-Year-Old Seriously Hurt

A 30-year-old man was arrested on Thursday in Cambridgeshire, England, on suspicion of attempted murder after police said he threw a 3-year-old boy into a crocodile enclosure at a local zoo. The child was taken to hospital with severe injuries. Police said his condition has improved slightly since treatment and he is now described as seriously injured but stable.

Investigators said they do not currently believe the suspect and the child knew each other. The Cambridgeshire Police inquiry is focusing on witness accounts from visitors who were at the zoo when the incident happened. Detective Verity McCann said officers were speaking to people who were there to better understand what happened, adding, “We do not believe the man arrested and the child are known to each other.”

The zoo, Johnsons of Old Hurst, said it would remain closed until further notice. In a statement, it said, “Our thoughts and prayers are with the child and his family.” The site houses more than 100 animals, including crocodiles, lions and tigers. Zoo management said the crocodile area is inside a specially converted building with raised, fenced walkways overlooking water pools surrounded by tropical vegetation.

The investigation is ongoing as police continue to examine the unusual circumstances of the case.