Quadruple Amputee Cornhole Player Charged with Murder After Fatal Shooting in Maryland
Maryland authorities have announced that a professional cornhole player, who is also a quadruple amputee, has been arrested and charged with murder after allegedly fatally shooting a passenger in the front seat of a car he was driving during an argument. The incident has shocked the sports community and drawn widespread attention due to the unique background of the accused.
Details of the Arrest and Charges
Dayton James Webber, 27, was arrested on Sunday night as a fugitive from justice by police in Albemarle County, Virginia, according to a statement from the Charles County Sheriff's Office. The sheriff's office is seeking his extradition from Virginia and plans to charge him with first-degree murder, second-degree murder, and related charges. It remains unclear as of Tuesday whether Webber has secured legal representation, and messages left for his mother seeking comment have not been returned.
Background of the Accused
Webber gained national recognition in 2023 when ESPN featured him in an inspirational story, highlighting his activities such as riding dirt bikes, wrestling, and playing football before he became a professional cornhole player. That same year, he wrote an essay for the Today show detailing his journey to becoming a professional competitor. In the essay, Webber revealed that doctors amputated his arms and legs when he was just 10 months old to save his life after he contracted a serious blood infection, with his medical team giving him only a 3% chance of survival.
Despite his disabilities, Webber excelled in cornhole, a game where players throw bean bags through a hole in a slanted wooden board to score points. He described learning to grab the bean bag by the corners and throw it using his amputated arms, showcasing his determination and adaptability.
Sequence of Events in the Shooting
According to the Charles County Sheriff's Office, the shooting occurred in La Plata, Maryland. After the incident, Webber pulled over and asked two passengers in the back of the car to help remove the victim from the vehicle. The witnesses refused, exited the car, and flagged down police officers. Webber then fled the scene with the victim still in the car.
Approximately two hours later, a resident in Charlotte Hall, located about a 10-mile (16-kilometer) drive away, reported a body in a yard. Officers responded and found the victim, identified as Bradrick Michael Wells, 27, of Waldorf, who was pronounced dead at the scene.
Reaction from the American Cornhole League
The American Cornhole League has issued a statement on its Facebook page acknowledging awareness of the allegations involving Webber. However, the league stated it would not comment on what it termed "an active legal situation" while proceedings are ongoing, emphasizing a cautious approach to the unfolding case.
This tragic event has raised questions about the circumstances leading to the shooting and the legal proceedings ahead, as authorities continue to investigate the details surrounding the argument and fatal outcome.
