Quadruple Amputee Cornhole Player Claims Self-Defence in Fatal Shooting Case
A Maryland judge has denied bail to a quadruple amputee professional cornhole player accused of fatally shooting a passenger in his car last month, with his defence attorney asserting the act was one of self-defence during a heated altercation.
Court Appearance and Bail Denial
Dayton James Webber, aged 27, appeared via videoconference in Charles County District Court for a bail review on Wednesday. Judge Patrick Devine ordered Webber to remain jailed without bail, noting that the defendant left Maryland after the March 22 shooting of 27-year-old Bradrick Michael Wells.
Webber, who was extradited from Virginia, faces charges of first- and second-degree murder, along with assault and firearm offences. He has not yet entered a plea and is scheduled for a preliminary hearing on May 6.
Defence Argument and Prosecution Claims
Defence attorney Andrew Jezic informed the court that Webber acted in self-defence, anticipating “a lengthy trial” to substantiate this claim. Following the hearing, Jezic told reporters his client was “terrified” and stated, “The truth here is that he would have been a murder victim if he had not acted immediately in defence of his life.”
In contrast, Deputy State's Attorney Karen Piper Mitchell argued for Webber's continued custody, citing his flight to Virginia post-shooting and ownership of firearms. Witnesses in the car reportedly told authorities the argument centred on a gun stolen from Webber by a friend of Wells, with Webber allegedly upset that Wells maintained friendship with the thief.
Details of the Incident and Aftermath
According to police charging documents, Webber is accused of shooting Wells, of Waldorf, twice in the head during the dispute. After the shooting in La Plata, Maryland, Webber pulled over and requested two backseat passengers to assist in removing the victim, but they refused, exited the vehicle, and flagged down police officers.
The Charles County Sheriff’s Office reported that Webber fled with Wells' body still in the car. Approximately two hours later, a resident in Charlotte Hall, about 10 miles away, discovered the body in a yard along a road and notified officers. Detectives later located Webber's car in Charlottesville, Virginia, and found Webber at a hospital where he was “seeking treatment for a medical issue.”
Background of the Accused
Webber, whose arms and legs were amputated at 10 months old due to a severe blood infection, has gained public attention as an inspirational figure. He was featured by ESPN in 2023 for his resilience, engaging in activities like dirt biking, wrestling, and football before becoming a professional cornhole player.
That same year, he authored an essay for the “Today” show, detailing his journey to professional competition. Webber explained he learned to grasp the bean bag by its corners and throw it using his amputated arms, showcasing his adaptability and determination.
Family members of Webber declined to comment after the court hearing, leaving the legal proceedings to unfold as the case moves toward trial.
