New York Town Official Sentenced to 17 Years for Shooting DoorDash Driver

A New York town official has been sentenced to 17 years in prison after shooting a DoorDash delivery driver who approached his home asking for directions. Town of Chester Highway Superintendent John Reilly, 49, was ordered Monday to serve 17 years in prison followed by five years of post-release supervision.

Orange County District Attorney David Hoovler said the sentence reflects the defendant's actions. Reilly was convicted of assault and criminal possession of a weapon after firing at driver Alpha Barry on May 2, 2025. Barry, 24, had approached Reilly's house in Chester with a food delivery when his phone battery died and he needed directions.

45 caliber gun, shouted "Go," and fired repeatedly at Barry's Toyota Corolla. One bullet struck Barry in the lower back and remained in his body. Barry drove away and later collapsed at home. He underwent emergency surgery that removed two feet of his small bowel and required a colostomy bag for six months.

Barry wrote that the experience caused physical pain, emotional stress, and isolation. The shooting was recorded on Reilly's doorbell camera.

Reilly's wife, Selina Nelson-Reilly, admitted to deleting more than 12 videos from the doorbell camera. She received a one-year probation sentence and 200 hours of community service. Reilly's defense argued self-defense, claiming Barry arrived with food from a restaurant he had not ordered.

Jurors rejected the claim and convicted Reilly on assault charges. Reilly was initially indicted on attempted murder charges, but the jury did not consider them. He was elected in 2021 and must resign from his position under state law due to the felony conviction.

Chester supervisor Brandon Holdridge called for Reilly's resignation, describing him as a distraction. Reilly's lawyer stated plans to file an appeal.