A 65-year-old community board member from Washington state suffered severe injuries after a 2,000-pound bull bison tossed him eight feet into the air on Friday, July 10, 2026, at Yellowstone National Park.
Carl McDaniel was staying at the Bridge Bay Campground near Lake Yellowstone with his grandson when the animal charged, causing broken bones that required surgery.
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A nearby photographer recorded the incident, which later became viral on social media platforms, before stepping in to help the victim.
The witness, former combat photographer Mike MacLeod, stated that the victim remained lucid and maintained a positive attitude despite suffering severe leg pain on Sunday.
"He was in a lot of pain with his leg, and otherwise he was conscious the whole time, in good spirits, joking," said Mike MacLeod, Photographer.
MacLeod, who holds a degree in wildlife biology, observed that the victims maintained a proper distance from the animal and did not provoke the attack.
He noted seeing far more dangerous interactions involving other park visitors later that day.
"Most people see that these two did not ask for it," said Mike MacLeod, Photographer.
He further explained that they were at a "respectful distance".
The park website states that remaining near wildlife is illegal, and the National Park Service mandates that visitors stay at least 25 yards away from bison.
"If an animal moves closer to you, back away to maintain a safe distance," said National Park Service, Website Statement.
