Full Breakdown
Quadruple Amputee Dayton Webber Charged with Murder Claims Self-Defense
4/2/2026, 8:23:42 AM
Incident Overview
Dayton James Webber, a 27-year-old quadruple amputee and professional cornhole player, is facing serious charges, including first- and second-degree murder, following the fatal shooting of 27-year-old Bradrick Michael Wells on March 22 in La Plata, Maryland. During a bail hearing, Webber's attorney, Andrew Jezic, argued that Webber acted in self-defense during a heated argument over a stolen firearm. The court has ordered Webber to remain in custody without bail, citing concerns over his potential danger to the community and flight risk.
Background of the Case
The confrontation between Webber and Wells reportedly stemmed from a long-standing dispute, with allegations that a friend of Wells had stolen a gun from Webber. Witnesses indicated that the argument escalated inside Webber's vehicle, where he shot Wells twice in the head. Following the incident, Webber allegedly attempted to solicit help from two backseat passengers to remove Wells' body but fled the scene when they refused. His vehicle was later located in Charlottesville, Virginia, where he was found at a hospital seeking treatment for a medical issue.
Key Figures Involved
- Dayton James Webber: A professional cornhole player who lost his limbs due to a serious blood infection at 10 months old. He has been recognized for his athletic achievements and motivational speaking.
- Bradrick Michael Wells: The deceased, who was reportedly involved in a contentious relationship with Webber.
- Andrew Jezic: Webber's defense attorney, who asserts that Webber acted out of fear for his life.
- Karen Piper Mitchell: Deputy State’s Attorney, who argues that the shooting was an act of anger rather than self-defense.
Official Statements & Responses
Webber's defense maintains that he was terrified and justified in his actions, with Jezic stating, “The truth here is that he would have been a murder victim if he had not acted immediately in defense of his life.” Conversely, Deputy State’s Attorney Mitchell contends that Webber shot Wells in anger during the argument, emphasizing the history of disputes between the two men.
Criticism & Opposition
Hannah Bentley, the mother of Wells' child, has publicly disputed the self-defense claim, asserting that Wells would not have harmed anyone unless absolutely necessary. This perspective highlights the complexity of the case and the differing narratives surrounding the incident.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
There are discrepancies regarding the nature of the argument and the events leading up to the shooting. While the defense claims self-defense, the prosecution suggests that the shooting was premeditated anger. Additionally, it remains unclear whether any surveillance footage from Webber's vehicle exists to corroborate either side's account.
What's Next
Webber is scheduled for a preliminary hearing on May 6, where further details of the case are expected to emerge. The trial is anticipated to be lengthy, as both sides prepare to present their arguments regarding the circumstances of the shooting.
Verbatim Quotes
- “He was 100% justified in defending his life from an immediate lethal threat.” — Andrew Jezic, Defense Attorney
- “We are being told by the witnesses that, allegedly, a friend of the victim’s stole a weapon or weapons from the defendant and that the defendant was upset the victim was still friends with that individual,” — Karen Piper Mitchell, Deputy State’s Attorney
- “Dayton is — I don’t know, one of the most fun-loving human beings that I know, Matin said.” — Hammad Matin, Family Friend and Attorney
