Quadruple Amputee Cornhole Champion Charged with Murder

Attorney claims client acted in self-defense during deadly shooting of friend

Apr. 2, 2026 at 4:00am

Dayton James Webber, a 27-year-old quadruple amputee and professional cornhole champion, has been charged with first- and second-degree murder, as well as assault and firearm charges, for the fatal shooting of his friend Bradrick Michael Wells. Webber's attorney claims he acted in self-defense during an argument in Webber's vehicle on March 22 in La Plata, Maryland.

Why it matters

The case raises questions about the use of lethal force, especially by individuals with disabilities, and the broader societal issues surrounding gun violence and self-defense laws. Webber's status as a renowned cornhole player also adds an unusual twist to the tragic incident.

The details

According to authorities, Webber and Wells were in Webber's vehicle with two other witnesses when an argument broke out. Webber allegedly shot and killed Wells, then asked the witnesses to help dispose of the body, which they refused to do. Webber was later located at a hospital in Virginia seeking treatment for an unspecified medical issue and taken into custody.

  • On March 22, the shooting occurred in Webber's vehicle in La Plata, Maryland.
  • Nearly two hours later, the victim's body was found in a yard in Charlotte Hall, Maryland.
  • Webber was later located at a hospital in Charlottesville, Virginia, where he was taken into custody.

The players

Dayton James Webber

A 27-year-old quadruple amputee and professional cornhole champion who has been charged with first- and second-degree murder, as well as assault and firearm charges, for the fatal shooting of his friend.

Bradrick Michael Wells

The 27-year-old victim who was shot and killed by Webber during an argument in Webber's vehicle.

Andrew Jezic

Webber's defense attorney, who claims his client acted in self-defense during the incident.

Karen Piper Mitchell

The deputy state's attorney who argued that Webber was a danger to society and a flight risk during a hearing.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“He was 100% justified in defending his life from an immediate lethal threat. Dayton was terrified of being killed. Dayton knew that he had to shoot or be killed.”

— Andrew Jezic, Defense attorney

“According to the witnesses, a friend of Wells' allegedly stole a weapon from Webber, and Webber was upset the two were still friends and shot Wells in anger.”

— Karen Piper Mitchell, Deputy State's Attorney

What’s next

A preliminary hearing for Webber has been scheduled for May 6, where the court will determine if there is enough evidence to proceed with the charges.

The takeaway

This tragic incident highlights the complex issues surrounding self-defense laws, especially when involving individuals with disabilities, and the broader societal challenges of gun violence and interpersonal conflicts. The case will likely continue to raise important questions about justice, public safety, and the role of mental health and disability in the criminal justice system.