A 70-year-old woman has died after being charged by a bison while hiking with her husband at Custer State Park in South Dakota.
The incident happened on May 18 on the Grace Coolidge Trail, according to local reports citing authorities. The woman has not been publicly identified.
The fatal encounter happened after the couple came across a group of about five bull bison while hiking. According to the Custer County Sheriff’s Office, the couple initially stayed about 500 yards from the animals and waited for them to move farther up the trail.
After the bison were out of sight, the couple continued hiking. They later came around a corner and saw the animals again, this time about 50 yards away. The couple stopped, then followed the bison from a distance as the animals moved away.
At some point, one bison broke away from the group and charged the woman. The animal reportedly hooked her and tossed her into the air. She later died from her injuries.
Park Officials Removed the Bison From the Area
The South Dakota Department of Game, Fish and Parks said staff removed the bison from the area after the incident and are monitoring the animal’s behavior.
Nick Harrington, a spokesperson for the department, told KELO that staff are working to protect public safety and prevent similar incidents.
Officials are also reviewing safety measures at the park following the fatal attack.
Second Bison Incident Reported Earlier This Month
The woman’s death comes after another hiker was injured by a bison at Custer State Park earlier in May.
In that separate incident, a 22-year-old hiker was struck by a bison near Center Lake, according to local reports. The hiker was hit on the back of her legs and taken to a local hospital with injuries that were not considered life-threatening.
The two incidents have prompted officials to remind visitors to stay alert while hiking in areas where bison may be present.
Dry Conditions May Be Spreading Bison Across the Park
According to Harrington, dry conditions in the area have caused bison to spread out more throughout Custer State Park.
That can make encounters less predictable, especially on trails with curves, ridgelines, or limited visibility.
Officials are encouraging hikers to make noise while on trails, stay cautious when rounding corners, and keep pets on a leash.
Visitors are also being reminded to keep their distance from all wildlife.
Bison Are Powerful and Fast Wild Animals
Bison are the largest land mammals in North America. According to the U.S. Department of the Interior, they can weigh up to 2,000 pounds, stand 6 feet tall, and run up to 35 miles per hour.
Despite their size, bison can move quickly and may react aggressively if they feel crowded or threatened.
Park officials are urging visitors to treat bison as wild animals, not roadside attractions or trail companions.
Wildlife Safety Remains a Serious Concern
Custer State Park is known for its bison herd and wildlife viewing opportunities, but officials say visitors should remain cautious in all areas where animals are present.
The recent death serves as a reminder that even when hikers attempt to keep their distance, wildlife encounters can change quickly.
Anyone visiting the park is encouraged to follow posted warnings, give animals plenty of room, stay aware of their surroundings, and avoid approaching or following wildlife on trails.
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