Yellowstone bison attack leaves grandfather with broken leg during trip with grandson

A family trip to Yellowstone National Park took a frightening turn when a 65-year-old grandfather was seriously injured in a bison attack while walking with his grandson.

Carl McDaniel suffered a broken femur after a bison charged and tossed him into the air Friday evening at Bridge Bay Campground. He had been visiting the park with his 13-year-old grandson when they encountered the animal, which initially appeared calm and was about 100 yards away.

McDaniel said the pair took a quick photo before continuing their walk. Moments later, a passing truck honked its horn, apparently startling the bison, which then charged toward them.

McDaniel told his grandson to run in the opposite direction while he attempted to draw the animal away. The bison struck him, sending him airborne before he landed on the ground with severe injuries.

A nearby photographer who captured the incident on video rushed toward the bison to scare it away before it could attack again. Emergency responders transported McDaniel to a nearby hospital before he was transferred to Bozeman for surgery.

Doctors said McDaniel's femur was broken in four places near his hip. He underwent surgery Sunday and is expected to begin physical therapy as he recovers.

The National Park Service says this is the second bison attack reported at Yellowstone this year and reminds visitors to stay at least 25 yards away from bison and other large wildlife at all times.