by BLAIR COUNTY, Pa. — A rare white bison named Samson, who went missing from a farm in Tyrone, has been safely reunited with his family, bringing relief to the community and the owners of Zion White Bison Resort.
The incident began early Friday morning when the Fridays, a local family who owns the farm, discovered that the lock on their fence had been cut. Within hours, Samson — a 1,500-pound white bison — had vanished.
White bison are considered extremely rare, with only one in every million born with the unique coloring. For the Friday family, having Samson was a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
“I think the white buffalo is like the American dream. Being able to have that in your lifetime is a big deal,” said Samantha Friday, one of the farm’s owners.
The sudden disappearance left the family stunned.
“It’s kind of jaw-dropping that he’s just up and gone. You’re talking about a massive animal that stands out and yet completely disappeared,” Samantha added.
Her father, Sam Friday — a veteran and longtime bison owner — remained hopeful, suspecting that Samson may have wandered off after the chain was cut.
“I’m hoping he just pushed the fence open and ended up in the woods nearby. We just want him back,” he said.
The Pennsylvania State Police and the PA Game Commission quickly got involved in the search, working with the family to locate Samson.
The public was also urged to keep an eye out, but the family emphasized safety first.
“If you see him, please do not approach. Call us, the Game Commission, or State Police. He’s gentle, but we want everyone safe,” Samantha advised.
Late Friday night, their prayers were answered — Samson was found and safely returned home.
“Please, if somebody took him, bring him back,” Sam Friday had pleaded earlier in the day. Thankfully, that wish came true.
