Bison Avalanche: Massive Bull Flips Elderly Man Into the Air in Yellowstone

Mon Sep 14 2026 22:50:42 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

A 2,000‑lb bison rammed 65‑year‑old Carl Isom‑McDaniel, throwing him several metres into the air and causing multiple injuries. The incident raises safety concerns.

A massive bison burst through the campsite at Bridge Bay Campground near Yellowstone Lake, ramming elderly man Carl Isom‑McDaniel with its horn and launching him several metres high. Witness footage shows the animal rapidly charging after a child and grandparent’s photo. Isom‑McDaniel suffered multiple injuries and was air‑lifted to a hospital. The National Park Service has issued warnings to maintain a 25‑yard distance from the animals and advised visitors never to approach for photographs. Wildlife experts explain that July’s mating season increases bison aggression, underscoring the need for heightened caution.

A 2,000‑lb bull bison lunged at 65‑year‑old Carl Isom‑McDaniel during a sunset stroll at Bridge Bay Campground, near Yellowstone Lake, in Wyoming.

Witnesses and viral footage show the animal rammed him with its horn, sending the man several metres into the air. The bison then landed, flopped in agitated motions before hopping to its feet and charging the fleeing party.

Isom‑McDaniel suffered multiple injuries and was rushed to a hospital. The National Park Service has not yet released further details, but the incident fuels questions about visitor safety in Yellowstone’s wildlife‑dense environment.

The park recommended that visitors maintain at least a 25‑yard distance from bison and never approach to take photos. Experts said that July coincides with the bison mating season, heightening bull aggression.

The incident, filmed by a passerby, highlights the unpredictable nature of large ungulate behavior and underscores the need for vigilance and respect for wildlife boundaries.