A video captured a driver almost hitting an investigative journalist outside a methadone clinic in Maine on Thursday.
The motorist confronted Joe Sokol, a reporter from Maine Wire, while he was at the Bangor Comprehensive Treatment Center, accusing him of violating people’s privacy. After leaving the scene, the driver returned moments later, nearly running over Sokol and his cameraman. The Maine Wire described the incident as “attempted vehicular homicide.”
WATCH:
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. pic.twitter.com/Iwlpf3BWIx
— The Maine Wire (@TheMaineWire) October 1, 2026
“The individual clearly knew Sokol was a journalist and tried to prevent him from doing his job from public property,” stated Steve Robinson, Maine Wire’s Editor-in-Chief. He noted that Sokol’s quick thinking allowed him to capture the license plate of the vehicle involved. Thankfully, Sokol is safe and unharmed.
Robinson mentioned that Bangor police are looking into the situation and suggested the driver might have been intoxicated.
“We will fully cooperate with their investigation regarding the driver of the Blue Jeep Compass with Maine License Plate 841-LZD, as well as anyone who may have aided in the attempted murder by providing intoxicating substances,” he added.
Robinson also expressed gratitude on social media for Sokol’s quick reflexes and the support of the Bangor Police, stating that their investigation of the clinic would continue.
— Steve Robinson (@SteveRob) October 1, 2026
According to Robinson, Sokol was investigating a methadone clinic that has reportedly received around $25 million in taxpayer dollars through Medicaid. He characterized this as a taxpayer-funded drug operation.
Robinson asserted that they would assist Bangor PD in their inquiries, including providing details on the vehicle, the driver’s identity, social media presence, and the VIN number of the car, along with their account of what happened and their suggestions regarding repercussions for the driver and those involved in enabling his intoxication.
The Maine Wire is known for uncovering stories related to government inefficiencies and failures in oversight within Maine’s Medicaid-funded programs. They have also reported on crime spikes and substance use issues in areas like Bangor and Lewiston.
This incident isn’t isolated; The Maine Wire has faced several confrontations with their reporters in 2026. For instance, Jon Fetherston was harassed while covering a Lewiston City Council meeting in July, assaulted during an anti-ICE protest, and even faced threats to his life after protestors revealed his home address.
