Quadruple Amputee Cornhole Player Charged in Shooting Death

Lawyer claims client acted in self-defense during argument with passenger in his Tesla

Apr. 1, 2026 at 11:47pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a single spent shell casing on a dark surface, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash, conceptually illustrating the gritty details of a crime scene investigation.A close examination of physical evidence from the shooting scene reveals the stark realities of this tragic incident.La Plata Today

Dayton James Webber, a 27-year-old quadruple amputee professional cornhole player, has been charged with first- and second-degree murder for the shooting death of 27-year-old Bradrick Michael Wells. Webber's lawyer claims he acted in self-defense during a heated argument with Wells in Webber's Tesla on March 22.

Why it matters

The case raises questions about self-defense laws and the use of firearms by individuals with disabilities. Webber's background as a successful adaptive athlete also adds a unique angle to the story.

The details

According to police, Webber and Wells got into an argument over a gun that a friend of Wells had stolen from Webber. Witnesses said the two had a history of arguing, including a 2024 incident where Webber fired a shot from his home as Wells was leaving. Webber's lawyer claims he acted in self-defense, saying Webber was 'terrified' and would have been 'a murder victim' if he hadn't shot Wells. Authorities have not addressed whether the Tesla's cameras captured the incident or if self-driving mode was engaged.

  • The shooting occurred on March 22, 2026.
  • Webber appeared in court for a bail hearing on April 1, 2026.
  • Webber is due back in court for a preliminary hearing on May 6, 2026.

The players

Dayton James Webber

A 27-year-old quadruple amputee professional cornhole player who is charged with first- and second-degree murder, as well as assault and firearm charges, for the shooting death of Bradrick Michael Wells.

Bradrick Michael Wells

A 27-year-old man who was shot and killed by Webber during an argument in Webber's Tesla.

Andrew Jezic

Webber's defense attorney, who claims his client acted in self-defense and anticipates a 'lengthy trial' to prove it.

Karen Piper Mitchell

A deputy state's attorney who argued that Webber should remain in custody, noting that he drove to Virginia after the shooting and owns firearms.

Judge Patrick Devine

The judge who ordered Webber to remain jailed without bail during the bail review hearing.

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What they’re saying

“The truth here is that he would have been a murder victim if he had not acted immediately in defense of his life.”

— Andrew Jezic, Webber's defense attorney

“Webber was 'terrified'.”

— Andrew Jezic, Webber's defense attorney

What’s next

Webber is due back in court on May 6, 2026 for a preliminary hearing, where his lawyer will attempt to prove he acted in self-defense.

The takeaway

This case highlights the complex legal and ethical issues surrounding self-defense claims, especially when involving individuals with disabilities. It also raises questions about the role of technology, such as Tesla's self-driving features, in violent incidents.