Chester Highway Superintendent Arrested for Shooting Lost DoorDash Driver
Chester, NY — John J. Reilly III, the elected highway superintendent of Chester, New York, has been arrested and charged after allegedly shooting a 24-year-old DoorDash driver who was lost and seeking directions.
Incident Overview
On the evening of May 2, the DoorDash driver, a recent immigrant from West Africa with limited English proficiency, was attempting to deliver food in the Valerie Drive neighborhood of Chester. After his phone died, he approached several homes seeking assistance. Upon reaching Reilly’s residence, Reilly reportedly ordered him off the property and then fired multiple shots as the driver attempted to leave in his vehicle, striking him once in the back.
Reilly, 48, who is also a federally licensed firearms dealer, was arrested the following day. He faces charges including first-degree assault, second-degree criminal possession of a weapon, and criminal possession of a firearm. He was arraigned and held on bail options ranging up to a $750,000 partially secured bond. His preliminary hearing is scheduled for May 9.
Community and Organizational Responses
DoorDash condemned the incident, stating that “no one should ever fear for their safety just for trying to make deliveries in their neighborhood.” Chester Town Supervisor Brandon Holdridge expressed that the town board is “deeply troubled by what has been reported so far” and wished the victim a full recovery. However, he noted that the town government does not have control over Reilly’s position, as he is an elected official.
Investigation Status
The Chester Police Department recused itself from the investigation, which is now being led by the New York State Police in coordination with the Orange County District Attorney’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
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