Pro Cornhole Player, Quadruple Amputee, Arrested in Fatal Shooting

A professional cornhole player from Maryland, Dayton Webber, 27, has been arrested and charged with first- and second-degree murder in connection with the death of Bradrick Michael Wells, also 27, on Sunday, March 22nd. The case, drawing national attention due to Webber’s athletic achievements as a quadruple amputee, is currently unfolding as authorities investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting and subsequent discovery of the victim’s body.

The Sequence of Events

According to the Charles County Sheriff’s Office, the incident began with an argument inside Webber’s vehicle. Passengers in the backseat witnessed Webber allegedly shoot Wells in the head. Following the shooting, Webber reportedly asked the passengers to help him remove Wells from the car, but they refused and left the scene. Webber then fled with Wells’ body still inside the vehicle. Approximately two hours later, a resident of Charlotte Hall, Maryland, discovered Wells’ body in a yard and alerted the police.

Detectives eventually located Webber’s car over 100 miles away in Charlottesville, Virginia, and obtained a warrant for his arrest. The Albemarle County Police Department assisted in the search, spotting Webber’s vehicle at a gas station and using surveillance footage to track him down. Webber was subsequently arrested and is awaiting extradition back to Maryland. He was initially found seeking treatment at a local hospital for an unspecified medical issue, according to authorities.

A Remarkable Athletic Journey

Webber’s story is one of remarkable resilience and athletic achievement. He lost all four limbs as an infant due to a severe bacterial infection, Streptococcus pneumoniae. Despite this profound physical challenge, he participated in a variety of sports, including football and wrestling, throughout his childhood. A 2010 ESPN profile highlighted his wrestling accomplishments, showcasing his determination and competitive spirit. ESPN’s 2010 profile of Webber details his early athletic pursuits and unwavering attitude.

He later found success in cornhole, becoming Maryland’s best player in 2020 and turning professional in the 2021-2022 season. Webber distinguished himself as the first quadruple amputee in the American Cornhole League (ACL), competing at the highest level of the sport. He adapted his technique to compensate for the lack of hands, throwing the bean bags by their corners for increased leverage. In a 2023 essay for Today, Webber described his journey and his hope to inspire others to pursue their dreams, regardless of obstacles. The ACL has acknowledged the allegations but declined to comment further due to the ongoing legal proceedings. The American Cornhole League’s website provides information about the organization and its events.

Understanding the Charges and Legal Process

Webber is currently facing charges of first- and second-degree murder, as well as related charges, in Charles County, Maryland. The sheriff’s office is continuing to investigate the incident and is asking anyone with information to come forward. His next court date is scheduled for sometime in April, though his attorney could request an earlier hearing. The legal process will involve gathering evidence, presenting arguments, and ultimately determining Webber’s guilt or innocence.

The Investigation and Ongoing Questions

As of Tuesday, March 24th, authorities have not publicly confirmed a motive for the shooting. The investigation is ongoing, and details surrounding the events leading up to the incident remain unclear. NPR has reached out to Webber’s attorney, the Albemarle County court, and the Charles County State’s Attorney for comment, but has not yet received a response. The case is drawing significant media attention, and updates are expected as the investigation progresses. NPR’s initial report provides a comprehensive overview of the case.

What Comes Next: The Path Forward

The immediate next step is Webber’s extradition from Virginia back to Maryland to face the charges against him. Following extradition, the case will proceed through the Maryland court system. This will involve arraignment, preliminary hearings, potential plea negotiations, and a trial if a plea agreement is not reached. The Charles County State’s Attorney’s Office will be responsible for presenting evidence and building a case against Webber. The investigation remains active, and authorities will continue to gather information and interview witnesses. The outcome of this case will depend on the evidence presented and the decisions made by the courts.