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Europe July 17, 2026

Boy mauled by crocodile suffers head, neck injuries

Boy mauled by crocodile suffers head, neck injuries

A young boy is recovering after a traumatic incident at a farm and zoo, where a zookeeper intervened to save his life. The boy has undergone multiple surgeries, including a recent nerve graft on his left arm. His family has provided updates on his condition, revealing the extent of his injuries and the long road to recovery ahead. The boy's left arm required a nerve graft, which was harvested from his leg, and it may take several months to determine the success of the procedure.

The boy's family has shared details of his care, including a 12-hour operation that took place after he was admitted to the hospital. During the surgery, medical staff addressed significant damage to his arms, neck, head, and face, including tendon and nerve damage, as well as broken bones and severe tissue damage. The family has described the experience as traumatic, with the possibility of amputation and resuscitation hanging over them during the initial 12 hours.

Despite the severity of his injuries, the boy is making progress, with his family reporting that he is talking, playing, and smiling again just four weeks after the incident. Once he is discharged from the hospital, he will require ongoing rehabilitation, both physical and psychological, to aid in his recovery. The family has expressed their gratitude for the support they have received, which includes a significant fundraising campaign that has raised over £68,000 to date.

Crocodiles in an enclosure at Johnsons of Old Hurst, a farm and zoo in Old Hurst, Cambridgeshire, Britain, April 14, 2026, in this still image obtained from social media.

The boy's family has thanked those who have sent well-wishes and supported them during this difficult time, stating that they are "forever grateful" for the kindness and generosity they have received. As the boy continues on his path to recovery, his family remains hopeful for his future and is focused on providing him with the care and support he needs to heal and thrive.

Owner Andy Johnson seen this morning at Johnsons of Old Hurst in Cambridgeshires. // A close pal of the hero zoo keeper who jumped into a crocodile pen to save the life of a little boy today praised her 'extraordinary bravery.'Reptile expert Chris Newman said Tracey Johnson and the three year old boy were both incredibly lucky to escape being bitten by the huge crocodiles who are naturally 'reactive.'Tracey, 55, dashed into the crocodile pen at Johnsons of Old Hurst near Huntingdon, Cambs, after the un-named boy was thrown in by a stranger.Tracey - who owns the zoo with husband Andy Johnson, 56 - was able to retrieve the three year old boy despite the presence of at least two large Nile crocodiles. Photo released 19/06/2026 Photo released 19/06/2026

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