Chester Highway Superintendent Fired After DoorDash Shooting Conviction

John Reilly III faces felony charges for shooting a lost delivery driver who knocked on his door.

Mar. 30, 2026 at 7:28pm

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An extreme close-up of a shiny metal shell casing on a dark surface, dramatically lit by a harsh camera flash to create a stark, gritty aesthetic that conceptually represents the violence of the crime.A recent wave of violence against gig workers exposes tensions between residents and the growing on-demand economy.Chester Today

The Town of Chester, South Carolina has terminated John Reilly III from his position as highway superintendent after he was convicted of felony charges related to the shooting of a DoorDash driver, Alpha Oumar Barry, who was lost and knocked on Reilly's door while making a food delivery.

Why it matters

The incident highlights tensions between residents and gig economy workers, as well as concerns over the use of force and racial bias in policing. It also raises questions about workplace conduct and public safety in small town communities.

The details

According to authorities, Barry, an immigrant from West Africa, was making a DoorDash delivery in Chester when his phone died. He knocked on Reilly's door seeking directions, but Reilly allegedly shot him, claiming he feared for his safety. Barry survived the gunshot wound.

  • The shooting incident occurred on March 15, 2026.
  • Reilly was convicted of felony charges on March 28, 2026.
  • The Town of Chester terminated Reilly's employment on March 30, 2026.

The players

John Reilly III

The former highway superintendent of Chester, South Carolina who was convicted of felony charges for shooting a DoorDash driver.

Alpha Oumar Barry

A DoorDash driver who was shot by Reilly while making a food delivery in Chester, South Carolina.

Town of Chester

The local government in Chester, South Carolina that terminated Reilly's employment as highway superintendent following his felony conviction.

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What they’re saying

“He (Barry) takes no pleasure in someone's incarceration,”

— Barry's attorney

What’s next

Reilly is expected to be sentenced for his felony convictions in the coming weeks.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the need for better training, de-escalation tactics, and community relations between law enforcement, residents, and gig economy workers in small towns across America.