Maine Wire reporter Joe Sokol captured the moment he was nearly run down by a crazed motorist this week. Sokol was doing a segment across the street from a methadone clinic that’s received $25 million in taxpayer dollars. A driver pulled up, recognized him, and berated him for violating people’s privacy.
Sokol was not violating anyone’s privacy, as he was not on the clinic’s property and was recording on a public street. Sokol said the driver might be intoxicated as he pulled away, but the suspect then made a U-turn and tried to run down the journalist. It’s all on film.
Some lunatic just attempted to murder our reporter @iAmJoeSokol. We have the entire chilling interaction on camera. We will take all necessary actions to demand justice. https://t.co/Iwlpf3BWIx
— The Maine Wire (@TheMaineWire) October 1, 2026
Official statement on the murder attempt against our reporter: https://t.co/Rwf60w0Vv7
— The Maine Wire (@TheMaineWire) October 1, 2026
Meet Ryan Hayward, who faces “reckless conduct with a dangerous weapon” and other charges.
BREAKING: AN ARREST HAS BEEN MADE: Ryan Hayward has been arrested and charged with: -Reckless conduct with a dangerous weapon -Criminal threatening with a dangerous weapon -Driving to endanger -Violating conditions of release https://t.co/hZyiKEQ2Dc
— The Maine Wire (@TheMaineWire) October 2, 2026
UPDATE: Ryan Hayward has been ARRESTED after he attempted to run over @TheMaineWire reporter Joe Sokol with his car. He has been charged with multiple crimes, including reckless conduct with a dangerous weapon and driving to endanger. https://t.co/6bgQc1RXKc
— Libs of TikTok (@libsoftiktok) October 2, 2026
Sokol got his tags as he sped off. It was only a matter of time.
Editor's Note: Do you enjoy Townhall's conservative reporting that takes on the radical Left and woke media? Support our work so that we can continue to bring you the truth.
Join Townhall VIP and use promo code FIGHT to receive 60% off your membership.
Join the Conversation
VIP members get the ability to comment on articles.