Quadruple amputee charged in murder case claims self-defense
Charles County, Maryland – The case of Dayton James Webber, a professional cornhole player and quadruple amputee facing murder charges, took a dramatic turn Wednesday as his attorney asserted a claim of self-defense. Webber, 27, stands accused of murdering Bradick Michael Wells, 27, in a Charlotte Hall yard in late March, a scenario complicated by the unusual circumstances of the defendant’s physical condition and the accounts of two witnesses.
A fatal encounter and witness testimony
According to the Charles County State’s Attorney's Office, Wells was discovered deceased after two individuals flagged down deputies, relaying a harrowing account of a shooting they witnessed from the backseat of a vehicle. These witnesses allege that Webber, the driver, engaged in a heated argument with Wells, ultimately resulting in the fatal shooting. Remarkably, the witnesses claim they refused to assist in removing the body and subsequently departed the scene as Webber transported Wells’ remains in the car.
The body was located approximately two hours later. While authorities have released limited details, the witnesses' accounts paint a picture of a volatile situation escalating to violence. The key question now hinges on whether Webber’s actions were justified as self-defense, a claim his lawyer is aggressively pursuing.
Webber's background: from cornhole champion to custody
The national attention surrounding Webber’s case stems not only from the gravity of the charges but also from his unique background. Videos circulating online showcase his proficiency in firing weapons, alongside his former success as a cornhole competitor within the American Cornhole League. Though his participation has reportedly ceased since 2024, his status as a recognized athlete adds another layer of complexity to the narrative.
Perhaps most striking is Webber’s history. At just 10 months old, he contracted a bacterial infection that led to sepsis, necessitating the amputation of all four limbs. An ESPN profile detailed his resilience and determination, portraying him as a dedicated athlete overcoming immense physical challenges. To now face a murder charge, with the added element of a self-defense argument, presents a particularly unsettling paradox.
Legal proceedings and the road ahead
Webber was apprehended in Charlottesville, Virginia, and subsequently extradited to Charles County, where a judge ordered him to be held without bond on Wednesday. WJZ has sought comment from Webber’s attorney, who has consistently declined to provide details about the case. The Charles County State’s Attorney’s Office is proceeding with first- and second-degree murder charges, setting the stage for a protracted legal battle. The coming weeks will likely reveal more details about the events leading up to Wells’ death and the veracity of Webber’s self-defense claim, a claim that could significantly alter the trajectory of this already extraordinary case.