A three-year-old boy is recovering after being attacked by a crocodile at Johnsons Zoo in Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire, on June 18. The child suffered multiple injuries, including a broken arm and pelvis, and has undergone six surgeries so far, including skin grafts.

The boy’s family reported that while he still has limited movement in three fingers on his left hand and no movement in the fingers of his right hand, he has begun to smile, signaling progress in his recovery. His most recent surgery, performed on Tuesday, was described as successful, with medical staff confirming that previous skin grafts on his left arm had taken and were healing well. The family added that doctors were also pleased with the healing of his other external wounds, which they said had lifted their spirits.

The child remains hospitalized at Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge, where medical staff have reportedly dressed as superheroes to help boost his morale. An online fundraising campaign was established to assist with the boy’s physical and psychological rehabilitation, raising over £62,000 to date. The family expressed gratitude for the support, highlighting the long road to recovery ahead.

The incident involved a 30-year-old man from Norfolk, who was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after reportedly throwing the boy over a four-foot barrier into the crocodile enclosure. The man, who has been identified as having severe learning difficulties and was accompanied by carers at the time of the incident, was later released on bail until September 18 after being deemed unfit to undergo police interviews.

Zoo owners Andy and Tracey Johnson, alongside their son Edward, reportedly intervened immediately to rescue the child from the crocodile pit. The swift action of the family played a critical role in saving the boy’s life.

Authorities continue to investigate the incident, balancing concerns over the safety protocols at the zoo and the circumstances surrounding the alleged assault. Meanwhile, the boy’s family remains focused on his recovery and the support from the community.