Bison flips grandpa at Yellowstone in viral attack video
A bull bison at Yellowstone National Park charged 65-year-old Carl Isom-McDaniel on July 10, 2026, tossing him into the air at Bridge Bay Campground near Yellowstone Lake. Viral video shows the moment a bison flips grandpa Carl while he was visiting with his grandson. He was hospitalized with serious injuries, including a broken femur, and underwent surgery.
Key Takeaways
- A charging bison flipped 65-year-old Carl Isom-McDaniel into the air at Yellowstone's Bridge Bay Campground on July 10, 2026.
- Video of the attack went viral, and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers later used the clip in a preseason social media post that surprised many viewers.
- Experts urge visitors to stay at least 25 yards from bison and watch for signs of agitation before a charge.
- Isom-McDaniel was hospitalized and underwent surgery but is expected to recover.
What Happened When the Bison Flipped the Grandpa?
According to the New York Times, the attack unfolded Friday evening at Bridge Bay Campground. Viral footage captured the bull bison charging Isom-McDaniel and his grandson before launching the grandfather into the air.
The National Park Service confirmed that emergency responders transported the injured visitor to a nearby hospital. Yahoo News reported he was treated for a broken femur at a Montana hospital.
Why Did the Bison Charge at Bridge Bay Campground?
Reporting on the incident, Yahoo News noted that Isom-McDaniel told CNN a passing truck honked its horn to get the animal to move, and the noise appeared to agitate the bison. He said he told his 13-year-old grandson to run in the opposite direction as the animal rushed toward them.
Yahoo noted the attack was the second bison incident in Yellowstone this year, after a 12-year-old was hurt in June. Bison are the animal most likely to injure people in the park, though attacks remain rare.
How Did the Buccaneers Turn a Bison Flip Into a Viral Post?
As the clip spread online, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers became the first NFL team to repurpose it. NBC Sports reported the team posted the key moment on Monday over banjo music, cutting to receiver Tez Johnson mid-flip after a touchdown. The caption read: "Flipping out because it's almost football season."
Many were surprised by the decision to lean into footage of a seriously injured visitor. NBC Sports reported Isom-McDaniel underwent surgery and is expected to recover. The outlet also noted the Buffalo Bills would have been a natural fit to use the clip given their mascot.
What Should Yellowstone Visitors Do Around Bison?
Yahoo's safety guidance after the attack stresses distance and awareness. Stay at least 25 yards from bison, watch for agitation signs like tail-raising, huffing, or direct eye contact, and never approach for a photo—even if the animal looks calm.
If a bison charges, seek cover behind a large tree or vehicle rather than trying to outrun an animal that can reach 35 mph. For more offbeat headlines from the wild side of the news cycle, browse our Bizarre News & Florida Man section.