THE family of a boy, three, who was allegedly tossed into a crocodile pit have shared an update on their son’s “long road to recovery”.
His parents said in a statement that it’s been an “extremely challenging” time since the horror incident occurred on June 18.
The boy is currently being treated for his injuries at Addenbrooke’s Hospital, Cambridge, after he was reportedly thrown into a crocodile enclosure at Johnsons of Old Hurst zoo.
He is in a stable condition, but police say he faces a long road to recovery.
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.
“Our attention remains focused on his recovery and supporting him through this extremely challenging and prolonged period of time.”
A GoFundMe page has been set up in order to help fund the boy’s recovery and provide the family with financial stability as they support their son’s recovery.
A statement on the fundraising page read: “After undergoing multiple surgeries, his condition 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.
“Every donation, no matter the size, will support the family by giving them the financial stability they need as they navigate through this difficult time.
“It will also support their son’s further recovery and rehabilitation in the upcoming months and years ahead.
“Should any funds remain after meeting the family’s needs, they will be donated to the charities and organisations within the Addenbrooke’s Trust to support other families facing similar challenges.
“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.”
Earlier this week, the zoo said its whole site will be open “as of this weekend”, after the boy was left in critical condition.
In a social media post, Johnsons of Old Hurst said: “As of this weekend, our whole site will be fully open, thank you.”
It comes after the small child was allegedly thrown 15 ft into the crocodile enclosure by a man with learning difficulties last Thursday.
The boy landed on a concrete walkway, resulting in a broken arm and pelvis — and then ended up in the water.
It’s believed that the boy had been bitten by one of the crocs – either a saltwater or Nile crocodile.
A 30-year-old suspect was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder but swiftly released from police custody.
Cops confirmed the man was not fit to be quizzed by officers and he has been bailed until September 18.
Police are now reportedly probing the two carers who were looking after the suspect during his trip to the zoo.
