A holiday in America's iconic West turned to tragedy for an 85-year-old woman after a horrifying encounter with a bison in South Dakota's Badlands National Park.
The victim, who was on a guided hike with a group, was suddenly charged by the enormous animal without warning. Park rangers confirmed the woman sustained severe injuries from being trampled and was pronounced dead at the scene.
A Stark Warning on Wildlife
This devastating incident is a sobering reminder that national parks are truly wild spaces. The National Park Service has long advised visitors to maintain a safe distance of at least 100 yards (91 metres) from bison at all times.
These animals, while often appearing calm, are wild, unpredictable, and can weigh up to a ton. They can sprint three times faster than a human, making it impossible to outrun them.
What We Know
- The Victim: An 85-year-old woman on an organised guided walk.
- The Location: A popular trail within the sprawling Badlands National Park.
- The Animal: A massive bison, which charged the woman unexpectedly.
- The Outcome: The woman was tragically pronounced dead shortly after the attack.
An investigation into the precise circumstances that led to the attack is currently underway by the National Park Service. This marks a rare but fatal episode in America's national parks, underscoring the critical importance of adhering to all safety guidelines when exploring areas inhabited by majestic but powerful wildlife.
