Yellowstone Officials Decide Not to Euthanize Bison That Injured Elderly Visitor

Yellowstone National Park authorities have chosen not to euthanize a bison that attacked 70-year-old Carl Izom-McDaniel last week. The incident, which was captured on video and went viral, left Izom-McDaniel seriously injured with multiple fractures, requiring surgery. The bison will remain within the park boundaries and no action will be taken against it.

Wildlife photographer Mike McCloud, who recorded the attack, said he stopped filming when he saw Izom-McDaniel thrown into the air, fearing the bison might continue its assault. McCloud and others rushed to help the injured man and to move the bison away. He noted that neither Izom-McDaniel nor his grandson appeared to provoke the animal. The bison had previously charged at a group of teenagers before focusing on the grandfather and grandson, who were trying to leave the area after noticing the bison's aggressive behavior.

Following surgery, Izom-McDaniel is recovering and reportedly first asked about his grandson's wellbeing after receiving medical care. The grandson was unharmed in the incident.