Delco man charged in crash that critically injured 4 Philly nuns

A Delaware County man was arrested and charged with multiple crimes in the December crash that critically injured four Northeast Philadelphia nuns, Delaware County District Attorney Katayoun M. Copeland announced Thursday.

Dylan J. Dostellio, 21, of Upper Chichester, has been charged with aggravated assault by vehicle while driving under the influence, driving under the influence of a controlled substance, and driving violations including careless and reckless driving.

On Dec. 10, Dostellio was driving a 1997 Honda Civic on Route 322 in Garnet Valley when he crossed the center line and struck a 2003 Buick LeSabre carrying four nuns from St. Katherine of Siena parish.

Bethel Township Police Chief Thomas Sharp said the nuns — Sisters Boguslawa, Mary Anthony, Regina, and John — were lucky to survive the crash. All four suffered serious injuries.

Officers at the scene of the crash asked Dostellio for identification; he was unable to provide it. When they searched the pockets of his jacket and pants trying to identify him, they found a wallet with a baggie of cocaine. Tests later revealed that Dostellio had used cocaine, marijuana and Klonopin, a prescription medication used to treat anxiety.

"As a result of the efforts of police and investigators, we were able to charge Mr. Dostellio who caused injury and harm to these four innocent women through his reckless behavior and actions," Copeland said.

Support for the injured nuns, who serve families in schools, hospitals, parishes, and social-service agencies, poured in after the crash; they received hundreds of messages and cards wishing them well.