Lycoming Regional Police Department Announces Arrest in Hepburn Township School Bus Incident Involving Unlawful Contact with a Minor.

The Lycoming Regional Police Department announced that Ryan Haywood, a bus driver employed by Student Transportation of America (STA), has been arrested for unlawful contact with a minor and other criminal charges, following an incident that occurred on October 20, 2025 at the Hepburn-Lycoming Primary School in Cogan Station, Hepburn Township.

On October 22, 2025, Regional Detectives received a report from the Williamsport City Police Department regarding the incident. Video evidence obtained from the school bus, along with interviews conducted with the child victim and their family, revealed inappropriate physical contact and concerning verbal remarks made by Haywood toward the 9-year-old student victim while the bus was stationary in front of the school.

Further investigation determined that Haywood also attempted to contact the child through social media, sending unsolicited and inappropriate messages via TikTok.

Based on the evidence gathered, Detective Jordan Mahosky obtained an arrest warrant for Haywood in connection with the offenses described.  Haywood self-surrendered and was subsequently booked and arraigned in front of the judge.  

The Lycoming Regional Police Department takes these matters extremely seriously and remains committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all children in our region.