Washington Grandfather Recovering After Viral Yellowstone Bison Attack

The injured visitor has been identified as Carl McDaniel of Kendall, Washington.

Witnesses said he was walking through the campground with his grandson when the animal suddenly charged, sending him several feet into the air before standing over him. His grandson was not injured.

The dramatic encounter was filmed by Bozeman-based photographer Mike MacLeod, who said he and his wife had only recently arrived at the campground when they noticed the bull bison moving aggressively.

According to MacLeod, the animal had already charged at other campers before turning its attention to McDaniel and his grandson, who appeared to be observing it from what he described as a respectful distance.

MacLeod said he immediately stopped recording after seeing McDaniel thrown into the air and rushed toward the animal, with several other campers joining him in an effort to distract the bison and prevent further injury. He recalled fearing the animal might gore or trample the victim as it lingered over him before eventually walking away.

The photographer believes the bison’s behavior may have been influenced by the summer mating season, when bull bison are known to become more territorial, unpredictable and unstable. He noted that the animal had been roaming the campground and displaying signs of agitation, including kicking up dust, in the minutes leading up to the attack.
Friends and colleagues in Whatcom County described McDaniel as a respected community member involved in local parks and recreation.

According to MacLeod, McDaniel suffered a broken femur, underwent surgery, and faces an extended period of rehabilitation, though he is expected to recover.

The National Park Service confirmed the attack but has not provided additional details on what triggered the incident. Officials continue to remind visitors that Yellowstone’s wildlife is unpredictable and advise maintaining a minimum distance of 25 yards from bison at all times.