When a DoorDash delivery driver got lost in Chester, New York, he sought help from the wrong person and paid the price.
The driver, a recent immigrant who speaks no English, was working to support his family when he sought directions from Town of Chester Highway Superintendent John Reilly III.
His simple request for directions resulted in gunfire, with a bullet striking his back as he tried to leave.
Reilly is the Highway Superintendent for the Town of Chester and a federally licensed firearms dealer.
He now faces serious criminal charges for the incident that occurred roughly 50 miles north of Manhattan.
The 24-year-old delivery driver, a recent immigrant from Guinea-Bissau in West Africa, was lost in the Valerie Drive neighborhood of Chester while trying to complete a delivery.
With his phone battery dead and unfamiliar with the area, he approached several homes seeking assistance before arriving at Reilly’s residence.
According to police reports, when the driver rang Reilly’s doorbell, Reilly warned him “to get off his property.”
As the driver attempted to comply and was returning to his vehicle, Reilly fired multiple shots, striking the driver once in the back.
Despite sustaining serious injuries requiring emergency surgery, the driver managed to return home before seeking medical attention. Authorities have confirmed his injuries are not expected to be fatal.
“There’s nothing to indicate the victim had any nefarious intentions, he’s just out there doing his job, trying to make a food delivery,” said New York State Police Capt. Joseph Kolek.
Reilly was arrested and charged with first-degree assault, second-degree criminal possession of a weapon, and criminal possession of a firearm.
He was initially held at Orange County Jail on a bond reported variously as $500,000 or $750,000, though reports indicate he is no longer in custody.
His preliminary hearing is scheduled for May 9 in the Town of Chester Court.
New York State Troop F is handling the investigation into this troubling incident after the Chester Police Department recused itself, given Reilly’s position as a town official.
The Town of Chester administration has acknowledged the situation and is reserving judgment.
Town Supervisor Brandon Holdridge stated that while they are “deeply troubled by what has been reported,” Reilly is “innocent until proven guilty” and the town will continue regular operations.
“The Town Board and I are aware of the ongoing situation concerning Highway Superintendent John Reilly,” stated Town of Chester Supervisor Brandon Holdridge.
“We are deeply troubled by what has been reported so far. We hope the person who was injured in the incident makes a full and healthy recovery,” he added.
DoorDash has expressed concern for its drivers. A spokesperson stated the company is “devastated by this senseless act of violence” and wishes the driver “a full and speedy recovery.”
The company has confirmed they are cooperating fully with law enforcement as the investigation continues.
