Headline: Outrage Erupts After New York Official Shoots Delivery Driver Asking for Directions
In a shocking incident that has garnered widespread condemnation, John J. Reilly III, a 48-year-old highway superintendent in Chester, New York, has been charged with first-degree assault after allegedly shooting a 24-year-old food delivery driver. The disturbing event unfolded on May 2, when the driver, who is reportedly a West African immigrant, sought directions after his phone died while navigating a wooded neighborhood.
Doorbell footage shows Reilly exiting his home and firing a warning shot, yelling "Go!" at the driver. As the young man attempts to flee in his vehicle, Reilly reportedly opens fire again, striking him in the back. Witnesses captured the driver’s desperate pleas for help on additional doorbell cameras, revealing a terrifying scene as he managed to drive home before collapsing. He is currently recovering from his injuries in the hospital.
"There’s nothing to indicate the victim had any nefarious intentions," stated New York State Police Captain Joseph Kolek, emphasizing that the driver was merely doing his job. Family members described the incident as life-threatening and bewildering, noting that the driver had approached Reilly’s home, asking if the order was for him, to which Reilly reportedly responded by telling him to leave.
Reilly, a federally licensed firearms dealer, is being held on a $500,000 bond at the Orange County Jail. Despite the serious charges, there has been no indication from Reilly about resigning from his elected position. Chester Town Supervisor Brandon Holdridge noted that the Town Board lacks control over Reilly’s future as highway superintendent. The New York State Police are now leading the investigation following the recusal of the local Chester Police Department from the case.
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