Ex-Teammate of Quadruple Amputee Cornhole Pro Accused of Murder Expresses Shock and Sorrow
Mike Hoffman, the former doubles partner of Dayton Webber, a professional cornhole player who underwent a quadruple amputation as an infant, has spoken out about his shock and sadness following Webber's arrest on murder charges. In a telephone interview on Tuesday, Hoffman described the case as a devastating event that has torn apart at least two families.
"I've been mad, sad – it sucks," Hoffman said, reflecting on the allegations against his 27-year-old former teammate. The arrest has sparked a national media frenzy after Webber was accused of shooting and killing Bradrick Wells, a 27-year-old passenger, during an argument in southern Maryland on Sunday.
Background of Dayton Webber's Inspirational Career
Dayton Webber gained fame for his resilience, pursuing youth wrestling and a professional cornhole career despite losing all four limbs at 10 months old due to a severe bacterial infection. His story earned media coverage from outlets like ESPN and the Washington Post, highlighting his determination and self-sufficiency.
Hoffman, 51, met Webber about a decade ago through the competitive cornhole scene in Maryland. The game involves tossing corn-filled bags at wooden targets with a hole. Impressed by each other's skills, they teamed up for doubles play, winning multiple championships across Maryland, Virginia, Delaware, and Pennsylvania. Their success led to professional status in the American Cornhole League (ACL), with matches broadcast on ESPN.
Hoffman's Memories of Webber's Independence
Hoffman recalled initially wanting to assist Webber due to his amputations but quickly learned of his teammate's fierce independence. Webber modified his car pedals to use with his knees, steered with his elbows, and sometimes used a prosthetic leg. Hoffman shared an anecdote about Webber effortlessly getting onto a restaurant stool and eating a cheeseburger during one of their first meals as pros.
"Quickly, you stopped opening doors for him and stuff like that," Hoffman said. "He could do whatever he felt like doing. Nothing could stop the kid." He considered Webber a friend and mentor, though they had not spoken in months before the arrest.
Details of the Alleged Shooting Incident
According to the Charles County Sheriff's Office in Maryland, Webber was driving with three passengers on Sunday night when he allegedly argued intensely with Wells, shooting him twice in the head. Webber then asked the other passengers to help remove Wells's body, but they refused, fled, and reported him to police. Wells's body was later found in a local yard, and Webber was tracked down about 150 miles away in Virginia, where he sought hospital treatment for an unspecified issue before being arrested upon discharge.
Webber faces charges of murder, assault, and use of a firearm in the commission of a felony. The motive for the argument remains unclear, with many questions unanswered by officials as of Tuesday.
Hoffman's Reflections on the Case
Hoffman expressed no surprise at the public's intense interest in the case, given Webber's remarkable background. He emphasized that while he does not believe Webber is a bad person, it is crucial to remember the victim's loved ones. "Dayton has a great family, and I care about that family," Hoffman said. "Yet, obviously, there is somebody [who] died, and you need to be respectful of that."
The case continues to unfold, with Hoffman and others grappling with the shocking allegations against a once-inspirational figure in the cornhole community.
