A bull bison charged at Carl Isom-McDaniel, a 65-year-old man, on Friday in Yellowstone National Park, resulting in serious injuries. The incident, captured on viral video, shows Isom-McDaniel and his grandson photographing the bison before the animal attacked, tossing him into the air.
Details of the Yellowstone Bison Attack
The attack occurred at Bridge Bay Campground near Yellowstone Lake shortly before sunset. Witnesses reported that Isom-McDaniel and his grandson were initially a safe distance from the bison when they decided to take a photo. However, as the bison became agitated, it charged at them.
Mike Macleod, who recorded the event, described how the bison used its left horn to hook Isom-McDaniel on the hip, flipping him over. “He made a perfect flip and landed on his side,” Macleod told the Cowboy State Daily. Isom-McDaniel was conscious and joking despite suffering from pain in his leg.
Visitor Safety Guidelines in Yellowstone
The National Park Service (NPS) emphasizes the importance of maintaining a safe distance from bison. According to their website, “Bison may appear tranquil, but these large animals have injured more people in Yellowstone than any other animal.” They advise visitors to stay at least 25 yards (23m) away from bison and not to approach them for photographs.
During the summer, particularly in July, Yellowstone sees a surge in visitors, with nearly 60% of annual visitation occurring in the months of June, July, and August. This period coincides with the bison's mating season, which can lead to heightened aggression among bulls, as noted by Jennifer Barfield, a professor at Colorado State University.
Understanding Bison Behavior
Barfield explains that the mating season can make bison more unpredictable. “It’s always good to keep in mind that 25 yards is a minimum distance for safety,” she said. Her team observes bison from the safety of vehicles during this time to avoid dangerous encounters.
- Incident Date: Friday, July 12, 2026
- Victim: Carl Isom-McDaniel, 65
- Location: Bridge Bay Campground, Yellowstone
- Bison Weight: Approximately 2,000 lbs (900 kg)
- Visitor Safety Distance: 25 yards (23 m)
🤖 This article was rewritten by Feed and Figures' editorial AI from a report originally published by BBC World. Facts and quotes are preserved from the original; the rewrite focuses on clarity and structure. For the unedited original, see the source link below.
