Bison attack victim: Landing hurt more than the throw

A 65-year-old man was thrown into the air and injured by a bison at Yellowstone National Park on July 10. Carl McDaniel, who was visiting with his grandson, suffered multiple fractures but survived the attack. The incident occurred at Bridge Bay Campground near Yellowstone Lake. McDaniel described the bison's sudden aggression, stating it charged without prior signs of hostility. He emphasized that the impact of landing caused more severe injuries than the initial throw. Bison can run up to 35 mph (56 kph) and weigh up to 2,000 pounds (900 kg), making them one of the most dangerous animals in the park. Yellowstone averages a few bison attacks annually, with at least two reported in 2025. McDaniel is recovering from surgery at Bozeman Health Deaconess Medical Center in Montana. Witnesses, including Mike MacLeod, helped haze the bison away after the attack. The National Park Service advises maintaining a 100-foot distance from bison and viewing them from vehicles when possible.