BOSTON (CBS) – An illegal immigrant from Kenya who was arrested for drunk driving in Framingham recently is an uncle of President Barack Obama, the White House confirmed to CBS News.

Onyango Obama, also known as Uncle Omar, was arrested last Wednesday, August 24 after police say he nearly ran his SUV into a police cruiser and later failed several sobriety tests outside a restaurant on Route 135 in Framingham.

Police said the 67-year-old ran a stop sign and was drunk when they pulled him over.

Documents obtained by WBZ-TV show when Onynago was asked if he wanted to make a phone call following his arrest, he responded, “I think I will call the White House.”

WBZ-TV’s Joe Shortsleeve reports

The White House confirmed to CBS News that Onyango Obama is the half-brother of the president’s father. He is also the older brother of President Obama’s aunt, Zeituni Onyango, who lived for years illegally in South Boston. She told WBZ-TV in September 2010 after being granted asylum that the United States has an “obligation” to grant her citizenship.

WBZ-TV has confirmed that Onyango Obama is represented by Margaret Wong, the same Cleveland-based attorney who helped Zeituni Onyango get asylum in the United States last year.

Onyango Obama gave his address as 37 Charles Street in Framingham. A young man who answered the door says he was not allowed to answer any questions.

Neighbors said Onyango Obama always appeared to be friendly and outgoing.

WBZ-TV has confirmed that Onyango Obama is in the custody of federal agents, most likely in Boston, because he now faces possible deportation. It is believed he entered this country from Kenya some 41 years ago.

In the president’s book “Dreams from my Father,” there is a reference to an uncle who left and never came back.

WBZ-TV’s Joe Shortsleeve contributed to this report.