Investigations launched after three-year-old seriously injured in crocodile enclosure attack

Authorities have launched multiple investigations into the care of a man arrested after a three-year-old boy was seriously injured in a crocodile enclosure at a zoo in Cambridgeshire.

The incident took place on 18 June at Johnsons of Old Hurst, near Huntingdon, when the young boy was attacked by at least one crocodile while visiting the attraction with his family. Emergency services rushed to the scene before the child was taken to Addenbrooke's Hospital in Cambridge with serious injuries.

Cambridgeshire Police later arrested a 30-year-old man from Norfolk on suspicion of attempted murder. Officers said the man, who was on a supervised trip with carers, is believed to have learning disabilities and did not know the child. He has since been released on bail until 18 September after being assessed as unfit for interview.

The boy remains in hospital in a stable condition. His family have said he has already undergone five operations and faces a long period of rehabilitation as he recovers from his injuries.

Norfolk County Council has confirmed it has launched a safeguarding inquiry under Section 42 of the Care Act 2014. Although the council did not provide or commission the man's care, the investigation will examine whether appropriate safeguarding procedures were followed.

The Care Quality Commission (CQC) has also begun assessing the registered care provider involved in supporting the man. The regulator said it would take action if any immediate risks to vulnerable people were identified during its investigation.

Cambridgeshire Police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident, while the safeguarding and regulatory inquiries run alongside the criminal investigation.

The shocking attack has raised questions about supervision, safety procedures and safeguarding arrangements during visits involving vulnerable adults. Authorities say their priority remains establishing exactly how the incident occurred and ensuring any lessons are learned to prevent similar events in the future.