On April 21, 2024, in an unfortunate incident at Yellowstone National Park, a man named Clarence Yoder from Idaho Falls was injured by a bison after he approached the animal too closely and kicked it. This marked the first reported case of a visitor being injured by a bison in Yellowstone National Park for the year 2024.
The incident occurred near Seven Mile Bridge on the West Entrance Road, about 7 miles east of the park's west entrance. Yoder was arrested and charged with being under the influence of alcohol to a degree that may endanger oneself, disorderly conduct as to create or maintain a hazardous condition, approaching wildlife, and disturbing wildlife.
Another individual traveling with Yoder, McKenna Bass from Idaho Falls, was also arrested and cited for driving under the influence and interference for failure to yield to emergency light activation. She was also charged with disturbing wildlife.
Yoder sustained minor injuries from the encounter with the bison. Both he and Bass appeared in court on April 22 and pleaded not guilty to their respective charges.
Bison are large animals that can weigh up to 2,000 pounds. They are known to be unpredictable and can charge when they feel threatened or provoked. Visitors are advised to maintain a safe distance from bison and all other wildlife in the park.
The National Park Service urges visitors to respect safety regulations and view wildlife from a safe distance, as these animals can be dangerous when approached. Wildlife in Yellowstone National Park are wild and can be dangerous when approached. When an animal is near a campsite, trail, boardwalk, parking lot or in a developed area, give it space. Stay more than 25 yards (23 m) away from all large animals – bison, elk, bighorn sheep, deer, moose and coyotes – and at least 100 yards (91 m) away from bears and wolves.
This is the first reported incident of a visitor being injured by a bison in 2024. The last reported incident occurred on July 17, 2023. There were three reported incidents in 2023 and one in 2024.
Visitors are reminded that Yellowstone National Park is home to numerous large and wild animals, and it's essential to respect their space for everyone's safety.
