In a bizarre and troubling turn of events, MSNBC anchor Rachel Maddow has allegedly been involved in a hit-and-run incident—with a dog. According to eyewitnesses, the veteran journalist struck a small brown Labrador with her electric SUV on a quiet residential street in Silver Lake late Monday evening, then sped away without stopping to check on the injured animal.
The incident reportedly occurred around 8:15 PM as Maddow was seen leaving what sources describe as a “low-key backyard gathering” hosted by a fellow television personality. Neighbors say the street is known for pet walkers and children playing outside, making the hit-and-run all the more alarming.
“We heard a thud, then a yelp,” said Maria Lopez, a local resident who lives on the block. “I ran outside and saw the dog limping off and a grey Rivian disappearing down the street. My husband recognized her from TV. It was definitely Rachel Maddow behind the wheel.”
Surveillance footage from a nearby home shows a vehicle resembling Maddow’s Rivian R1S slowing down briefly after the impact, then accelerating away. The footage has since been handed over to authorities.
The dog, named Buster, belongs to a 9-year-old boy in the neighborhood. Luckily, Buster survived the ordeal but suffered a fractured leg and is currently being treated at a local animal hospital. The boy’s mother, Jenna Taylor, expressed disbelief and frustration.
“I admired Rachel Maddow,” Taylor said in an emotional interview. “I always thought she stood for truth and accountability. Now I’m just shocked that she would drive away like that.”
At press time, neither Maddow nor her representatives have responded to requests for comment. MSNBC has also declined to make a statement.
LAPD confirmed it has opened an investigation into the matter. “We are aware of the situation and are reviewing the video footage provided,” said Officer Daniel Ruiz. “While no formal charges have been filed, we are taking the incident seriously.”
The alleged hit-and-run has quickly gone viral, with hashtags like #MaddowHitAndRun and #JusticeForBuster trending on social media. Opinions are sharply divided. Some fans argue that the media is rushing to judgment, while others demand accountability regardless of status.
Celebrity attorney Gloria Allred weighed in on the case, saying, “No one is above the law—not even TV hosts. If the reports are true, Ms. Maddow could be facing legal consequences.”
This marks the first time Maddow, known for her measured commentary and polished public image, has been linked to any scandal of this nature. Whether this incident will tarnish her reputation permanently remains to be seen.
