A 65-year-old Washington man remains hospitalized following a violent encounter with a bull bison at a Yellowstone National Park campground on Friday, July 10, 2026. Carl McDaniel, a resident of Kendall, Washington, suffered a broken femur after being tossed into the air by the animal.
Witnesses reported that the incident occurred near Yellowstone Lake during the park’s summer mating season, a period when bison are known to exhibit increased aggression. Mike MacLeod, a professional photographer who captured the attack on video, stated that the animal had been pacing the edge of the campground and kicking up dust before charging.
According to MacLeod, McDaniel and his grandson were walking through the area when the bison suddenly pursued them. Despite the victims attempting to move away, the bison caught McDaniel, leaving him with significant injuries. Emergency medical crews transported the victim to a nearby hospital, where he is currently undergoing recovery and physical therapy.
The National Park Service continues to emphasize strict safety protocols, advising visitors to maintain a distance of at least 25 yards from bison. Officials have confirmed the incident but have provided no further updates on the animal’s status or potential management changes.