JERUSALEM — A crocodile attacked a zookeeper in Jerusalem on Sunday, leaving him hospitalized with severe injuries on his upper body, officials said.

Israeli police said a security guard at the zoo likely saved the man's life by firing stun bullets at the crocodile. It was not immediately clear if the animal was injured.

Jerusalem's Ein Kerem Hospital said the 45-year-old man was immediately taken into surgery.

The zoo first opened in 1939 in the city center as a petting zoo and moved to southern Jerusalem in 1992. Today it hosts dozens of species from around the world and an aquarium.

LI woman's accused stalker in court ... Blakeman discusses campaign priorities ... LI Works: Making stone countertops ... Westbury Gardens hosts Lego exhibit ... Get the latest news and more great videos at NewsdayTV Credit: Newsday

LI woman's accused stalker in court ... Blakeman discusses campaign priorities ... LI Works: Making stone countertops ... Westbury Gardens hosts Lego exhibit ... Get the latest news and more great videos at NewsdayTV

LI woman's accused stalker in court ... Blakeman discusses campaign priorities ... LI Works: Making stone countertops ... Westbury Gardens hosts Lego exhibit ... Get the latest news and more great videos at NewsdayTV Credit: Newsday

LI woman's accused stalker in court ... Blakeman discusses campaign priorities ... LI Works: Making stone countertops ... Westbury Gardens hosts Lego exhibit ... Get the latest news and more great videos at NewsdayTV

SUBSCRIBE

Unlimited Digital AccessOnly 25¢for 6 months

ACT NOWSALE ENDS SOON | CANCEL ANYTIME