UPPER CHICHESTER, PA — A traffic stop that escalated into an alleged high-speed flight through a busy commercial corridor ended weeks later with the arrest of a 56-year-old man now facing multiple charges, according to the Upper Chichester Township Police Department.
Police said James Joseph Obyrn, 56, was taken into custody on Thursday, January 15, 2026, in connection with an incident that began nearly a month earlier along Market Street. Obyrn was arrested on an outstanding warrant issued December 20, 2025, by District Justice Diane Holfelder under docket number MJ-32238-CR-0000486-2025.
The case stems from an incident on December 19, 2025, at approximately 7:54 p.m., when a marked Upper Chichester police patrol vehicle conducted an area check at the Exxon gas station in the 2300 block of Market Street. According to police, an officer observed a Toyota Avalon operated by Obyrn in the parking lot and conducted a records check.
Investigators allege the check revealed Obyrn was driving with a suspended license related to a prior DUI offense and that the vehicle’s registration was suspended due to an insurance cancellation. When the officer attempted to initiate a traffic stop, police allege the vehicle failed to yield and accelerated at a high rate of speed.
Authorities said the driver continued through the area while allegedly disregarding traffic control devices and driving in a manner that placed the public at risk. Due to heavy traffic conditions at the time, officers decided not to pursue the vehicle. Police allege Obyrn continued to drive recklessly, demonstrating what investigators described as a disregard for his own safety and that of others.
Following the incident, police sought and obtained an arrest warrant. Obyrn was taken into custody without reported incident on January 15 and placed under the authority of the Upper Chichester Township Police Department.
He now faces charges including fleeing or attempting to elude police, recklessly endangering another person, driving with a suspended or revoked license, reckless driving, and careless driving.
All of the charges filed against Obyrn are allegations. As with all criminal matters, he is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
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