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Bison rams grandfather in Yellowstone Park, knocking him metres into the air

July 13, 2026

A 65-year-old grandfather, Carl Isom-McDaniel, was violently attacked by a 2,000-pound bull bison at Yellowstone National Park's Bridge Bay Campground while attempting to photograph the animal with his grandson. The bison, which initially appeared calm while resting in grass, suddenly became agitated and charged at the pair, ultimately goring and launching the grandfather into the air, causing multiple injuries that required hospitalization. The incident occurred during peak summer visitation and coincided with the bison's mating season when males exhibit heightened testosterone and unpredictable behavior.

Who is affected

  • Carl Isom-McDaniel, 65-year-old grandfather who sustained multiple injuries
  • Isom-McDaniel's grandson who was with him during the incident
  • Mike MacLeod, witness who recorded the footage
  • Yellowstone National Park visitors during the busy summer season
  • Driver of a white truck who was also charged by the bison

What action is being taken

  • Isom-McDaniel was sent to hospital for treatment of his injuries
  • The National Park Service has been asked for comment by the BBC (though no response has been provided)

Why it matters

  • This incident highlights the serious dangers wild animals pose to park visitors, particularly during breeding seasons when animal behavior becomes unpredictable. Bison have injured more people in Yellowstone than any other animal, and this attack demonstrates that even visitors who appear to maintain distance can be at risk. The timing during peak tourist season (July accounts for part of the 60% of annual visitation occurring in summer months) and overlapping with mating season when bull testosterone levels are elevated creates particularly hazardous conditions that affect the safety of millions of annual visitors.

What's next

  • No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: BBC

Bison rams grandfather in Yellowstone Park, knocking him metres into the air