Heroic Grandfather Lured Bison Away from Grandson Before Being Tossed 8 Feet into the Air at Yellowstone, Photographer Reveals

A grandfather who was tossed eight feet into the air by a charging bison at Yellowstone National Park showed remarkable bravery by luring the animal away from his grandson just moments before the attack, according to a photographer who witnessed the dramatic event.

Carl Isom-McDaniel, 65, told his 13-year-old grandson to run to safety while he tried to draw the 2,000-pound bison’s attention away from the boy at Bridge Bay Campground in Wyoming, photographer Mike MacLeod told NewsNation.

“Carl and his grandson started walking along the road, and the bison saw them,” MacLeod, who has experience observing animal behaviour, recalled about Friday’s incident.

“Carl told his grandson to run along the road and go back to the place where they had just come from while he lured the bison away. So, he saved his grandson’s life.”

The photographer then described how he tried to help distract the agitated bull bison. “So, I started yelling for other campers… running, jumping up as high as I could, and screaming at the top of my lungs, and ran at it to distract,” he said.

Isom-McDaniel and his grandson had spotted the animal during a post-dinner walk and decided to take some pictures, unaware that it was becoming agitated. The grandfather told CNN that a truck driver then blasted his horn, which appeared to provoke the bison further.

The animal suddenly charged toward the pair. Isom-McDaniel darted through some trees to try to avoid it before being flung into the air. “He made the perfect flip and landed on his side,” MacLeod told Cowboy State Daily, describing the terrifying moment.

“The bison was at least 6-feet tall and [Isom-McDaniel] was several feet above him.”

The retiree from Kendall, Washington, was relieved that his injuries were not more severe, despite breaking his femur — the body’s strongest bone — in four places near his hip.

“When I was on the ground immobile, unable to move, he was right on top of me,” he told CNN. “He could have stomped on me, he could have gored me, he could have done almost anything to take my life, and he did not do so.”

Isom-McDaniel was pleased that his injuries were “not as catastrophic” as they might have been. He was rushed to a hospital in Bozeman, Montana, and underwent surgery earlier this week.

Meanwhile, wildlife officials have confirmed that the bison will not be euthanised. Yellowstone visitors are strongly urged to stay at least 25 yards away from animals such as bison, according to National Park Service guidelines.

“Bison have injured more people in Yellowstone than any other animal,” the NPS warns. “They are unpredictable, can run three times faster than humans and will defend their space when threatened.”

The incident marks the second bison attack at Yellowstone this year. A 12-year-old child was injured near Mud Volcano on June 26.

Isom-McDaniel spoke highly of the people who helped him immediately after the attack. “All the people that were there were amazing; they were all positive, they were trying to help as best they could,” he said. A nurse tended to his leg while another bystander supported his head until emergency services arrived.

He was then transferred to a hospital in Bozeman, enduring a painful two-hour journey. McDaniel expressed gratitude for the paramedic who cared for him during the transport. Doctors determined that he had broken his femur in four places near the hip, along with several bruises. He underwent surgery on Sunday and was able to stand by Monday.

“I will be doing physical therapy for the next few days to get to walk, but it was not as catastrophic as it could have been,” McDaniel said, remaining positive despite his injuries.

The National Park Service strongly advises visitors to maintain a safe distance from bison at all times — at least 25 yards — and never to approach the animals. “If the bison follows you, spray bear spray as you are moving away, and seek cover behind nearby trees or cars,” the agency recommends.

McDaniel and his grandson had been enjoying a special trip together when the unexpected encounter occurred. The grandfather’s quick thinking in sending his grandson in the opposite direction likely helped protect the boy, who escaped unharmed.

Bison are powerful wild animals that can weigh over 2,000 pounds and run up to 35 miles per hour. While they often appear calm, they can become unpredictable, especially during certain seasons or when they feel threatened. Park officials regularly remind visitors that these animals are wild and should be treated with respect and caution.

The incident serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of wildlife safety in national parks. Even when maintaining what seems like a safe distance, sudden changes in animal behaviour can lead to dangerous situations, as McDaniel and his grandson experienced.

McDaniel’s positive attitude and gratitude toward those who helped him have resonated with many who have followed the story. His focus on recovery and appreciation for the people who assisted him reflect resilience in the face of adversity.

As he begins physical therapy and works toward regaining full mobility, McDaniel’s story highlights both the beauty and potential dangers of Yellowstone National Park. The park remains a beloved destination for millions of visitors each year, drawn to its stunning landscapes and incredible wildlife, but officials continue to stress the need for vigilance and respect for the animals that call it home.

The grandfather’s experience also underscores the kindness of strangers in times of crisis. From the photographer who intervened to the bystanders who provided immediate care and the medical professionals who treated him, McDaniel was surrounded by people willing to help during his ordeal.

As he continues his recovery, McDaniel will likely cherish the memories of the trip with his grandson while remaining cautious in future wildlife encounters. His story serves as both a cautionary tale and an inspiring example of human resilience and community support in the face of unexpected danger in one of America’s most iconic national parks.