A 65-year-old grandfather has spoken out from his hospital bed after a 2,000-pound bison launched him eight feet into the air at Yellowstone National Park, breaking his femur in four places and leaving him hospitalized with injuries that required emergency surgery.

Eight-Foot Launch After Evening Walk

Carl Isom-McDaniel was taking an after-dinner walk with his 13-year-old grandson at Bridge Bay Campground in Wyoming on July 10 when they stopped to photograph a bison. The Kendall, Washington resident said the massive animal appeared calm and non-aggressive while resting on the ground. Without warning, the bull bison selected him as its target and charged. Isom-McDaniel prioritized getting his grandson to safety before attempting to evade the animal by running through nearby trees.

The grandfather quickly discovered that bison move far faster than most people realize. Despite his evasive efforts, the animal pursued him relentlessly with increasing aggression. When the bison finally reached him, it launched Isom-McDaniel airborne. He told Bozeman Health in Montana that the launch itself caused no injuries, but the landing shattered his femur in four separate places, requiring immediate surgical intervention.

Photographer Captures Viral Attack

Professional photographer Mike MacLeod witnessed the entire incident unfold. Despite the severity of his injuries, MacLeod reported that Isom-McDaniel remained in good spirits following the bone-breaking impact. Video of the attack quickly spread across social media platforms, drawing widespread attention to the dangers posed by wildlife in America’s national parks. Park officials confirmed that no action would be taken against the bison involved in the incident.

Safety Guidelines Reminder

Yellowstone National Park regulations require visitors to maintain a minimum distance of 75 feet from large animals including bison. The animals can weigh up to 2,000 pounds and are capable of sudden bursts of speed that catch tourists off guard. Park officials regularly remind guests that all wildlife within the park remains wild and unpredictable, regardless of how docile they may appear. Isom-McDaniel’s experience serves as a stark reminder that even experienced visitors can find themselves in dangerous situations when wildlife decides to charge without apparent provocation.