Croc-horror tot was attacked before hero pulled him to safety

Zoo owner stopped boy suffering worse injuries

- BY PATRICK HILL

A TODDLER who was airlifted to hospital after ending up in the crocodile pit at a zoo was attacked by at least one of the giant reptiles.

The three-year-old boy last night remained in a critical but stable condition after reportedly suffering a broken arm and pelvis.

He was heroically saved by the co-owner Tracey Johnson, who entered the 15ft deep enclosure and got him out before he suffered further injury.

Tracey, 55, who recently became a grandmother, was hailed a hero by locals, and received several bouquets of flowers yesterday, including red roses.

Chris Newman, director of the National Centre for Reptile Welfare, said: “Knowing Tracey, it comes as no surprise that she acted this way — that’s exactly what she would do.

“She's a very courageous and brave lady. She has been incredibly heroic. It's nothing more than I'd expect from her. She’s a very strong lady.”

Mr Newman, 67, added: “It would have been incredibly difficult. To get in there that quickly and save the child is an incredible act of bravery.”