Hatchet-Wielding Man Arrested After Confronting Food Delivery Driver in New Scotland
Late-night delivery turns dangerous when driver is threatened, car damaged
NEW SCOTLAND, NY — What should have been a routine food delivery ended in fear and a damaged vehicle when a New Scotland man allegedly confronted a driver with a hatchet.
On Saturday, June 28, around 11:48 p.m., New York State Troopers responded to a frightening report: a delivery driver had been threatened while trying to drop off food in New Scotland. The driver had mistakenly arrived at the wrong address and was still seated in their vehicle when 43-year-old Paul D. Byron reportedly came outside holding a hatchet.
According to police, Byron immediately began threatening the driver. Once the driver realized the mistake and attempted to leave, Byron allegedly struck the vehicle multiple times with the weapon, causing significant damage. Thankfully, the driver was not hurt and contacted authorities once they reached a safe location.
The following day, on June 29, State Police arrested Byron at his home. He was charged with:
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Attempted Assault in the First Degree (a felony)
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Criminal Mischief in the Second Degree
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Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Fourth Degree
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Menacing in the Second Degree
After being processed at the New Scotland barracks, Byron was released with an appearance ticket. He is scheduled to appear in New Scotland Town Court on July 3, 2025.
A Reminder for Community Safety
This case serves as a reminder that simple mistakes—like stopping at the wrong house—can quickly escalate when tempers and weapons are involved. Fortunately, no one was injured, but incidents like this also shine a light on the kinds of stressors faced by gig workers, especially those working late-night shifts.
The investigation is ongoing. Authorities did not release further information on whether Byron had a prior criminal history.
