Yellowstone Bison Throws Grandfather 8 Feet Into Air

A 65‑year‑old Washington man, Carl McDaniel, was thrown about eight feet into the air by an agitated bull bison at the Bridge Bay campground near Yellowstone Lake on July 10. The attack occurred as McDaniel and his grandson were photographing the animal; the bison, likely spurred by the passing pickup truck, chased and rammed the grandfather, breaking his femur in four places.

McDaniel was hospitalized and underwent surgery, but was able to stand the following day and expressed gratitude that the animal did not gore him. Photographs and video captured by a nearby photographer showed the bison charging, chasing the man through trees, and other campers helping to distract the animal until it fled. Yellowstone officials reiterate that visitors should stay at least 25 yards from bison and other large wildlife, especially during the summer breeding season when the animals can run up to 35 mph and become aggressive.