GILLETTE, Wyo. — Criminal charges have been filed against two individuals who reportedly disturbed wildlife in Yellowstone National Park while under the influence of alcohol, park officials say.
Clarence Yoder and McKenna Bass, both of Idaho Falls, Idaho, have been charged with disturbing wildlife relating to an April 21 incident where Yoder was minorly injured after harassing and kicking a bison in the leg, according to an April 29 release.
The incident occurred on the West Entrance Road, near the Seven Mile Bridge, approximately 7 miles east of Yellowstone’s West Entrance. Rangers responded to the area and stopped it in West Yellowstone, Montana, where they took Yoder and Bass into custody.
In addition to disturbing wildlife, Yoder was charged with intoxication, disorderly conduct and approaching wildlife. Bass was charged with driving under the influence and interference by failing to yield to emergency lights, according to the National Park Service.
Yoder was transported for medical treatment and, upon being evaluated and cleared, was taken to the Gallatin County Detention Center in Bozeman, Montana, the NPS says.
As of April 29, Yoder and Bass have pleaded not guilty to the charges. If convicted, each violation could result in up to $5,000 in fines and six months in jail, per the NPS, which says the incident remains an active investigation.
“This is the first reported incident of a visitor being injured by a bison in 2024,” the NPS says. “The last incident occurred on July 17, 2023. There was one reported incident and 2023 and three in 2022.”