Grandfather Details Shocking Bison Attack that Broke His Femur in Four Places: ‘He Just Kept Coming’

A 65-year-old man is recovering in hospital after a shocking encounter with a bison at Yellowstone National Park earlier this month. Carl Isom-McDaniel was reportedly enjoying a day out with his grandson when the incident occurred, leading to multiple fractures in his femur.

The ordeal began on July 10, when Isom-McDaniel and his grandson observed a bison from a safe distance at Bridge Bay Campground. Describing the bison as calm initially, Isom-McDaniel recounted how the situation escalated unexpectedly. “He wasn’t showing aggression or anything like that until he picked a target. That target happened to be me,” he stated, reflecting on the aggressive charge of the animal which propelled him several feet into the air.

Photographer Mike MacLeod captured the dramatic moment on camera, a video that has since circulated widely on social media. In the footage, the calm atmosphere is disrupted as the bison charges at Isom-McDaniel. The grandfather explained that his immediate concern was for his grandson’s safety. They had decided to separate, believing this would help draw the bison away from the child. “I told my grandson to go to the amphitheater while I dealt with the bison down here,” he added.

Recalling the speed and force of the bison, Isom-McDaniel remarked on how quickly circumstances can shift in the presence of wildlife. “They move faster than you could ever imagine. As soon as he got off that tree, he launched me in the air,” he shared. The severity of the attack left him with four breaks in his femur, requiring surgical intervention.

Isom-McDaniel noted the potential for a much worse outcome, illustrating the risks involved in such encounters with large animals. “Even though I was on the ground, he could have stomped me, he could have gored me — could have done anything,” he said from his hospital bed at Bozeman Health in Montana, where he is currently recuperating.

According to reports, the bison’s agitation was triggered by the sound of a white pickup truck that had passed nearby, causing the animal to spring into action. “You could tell he was agitated, pissed off, and charging anything and everything,” explained MacLeod, underlining the unpredictable nature of wildlife behaviour in national parks. Notably, MacLeod pointed out that neither Isom-McDaniel nor his grandson had behaved carelessly; they had been respectful of the wildlife.

The incident has sparked conversations about safety in national parks, particularly regarding interactions with large animals like bison, which are known for their unpredictable behaviour. While many visitors come to Yellowstone for the opportunity to see wildlife, it is crucial to maintain a safe distance to prevent similar occurrences.

As Isom-McDaniel continues his recovery, he remains grateful for the support from medical staff and his family. Despite the traumatic experience, he emphasised the need for respect and caution in the presence of wild animals. His story serves as a reminder of the importance of understanding wildlife behaviour and the inherent risks involved when observing these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

In conclusion, the incident serves as a cautionary tale for those visiting Yellowstone National Park. As wild as the landscapes may be, they come with their own set of challenges and dangers, underscoring the need for careful interaction with nature.