A tourist was seriously injured Friday evening after an agitated bull bison at Yellowstone National Park's Bridge Bay Campground tossed him eight feet into the air. Professional photographer Mike MacLeod, who filmed the incident, described the bison as "angry, agitated and charging anything and everything." The victim, reportedly walking with his grandson, sustained significant injuries, including a broken hip, and remains in serious condition.
The incident occurred as the victim and his grandson were walking along a road, reportedly maintaining a distance of at least 100 yards from the bison, which was initially resting. According to MacLeod, the bison became agitated after a white pickup truck passed, then pursued the man and his grandson who attempted to take cover behind trees. The bison then hooked the man with its left horn, flipping him into the air.
Bystanders, including MacLeod, intervened by shouting and running towards the animal to distract it, allowing the injured man to be attended to. Yellowstone Emergency Medical Services quickly arrived to provide aid. This marks the second human-bison incident in Yellowstone National Park in 2026, following an injury to a 12-year-old near Mud Volcano in June.
The attack comes during Yellowstone's annual bison rut, or mating season, which typically runs from June through September. During this period, male bison exhibit increased aggression and unpredictability due to elevated testosterone levels as they compete for mates. Park officials consistently advise visitors to maintain a minimum distance of 25 yards from bison and other large wildlife, emphasizing that these animals are wild and can be dangerous, regardless of their apparent docility. Bison are responsible for more injuries to Yellowstone visitors than any other animal.
