MONTGOMERY, Ala. — A Montgomery man, identified as Marice Devonte Watkins, has been arrested and charged with first-degree assault after allegedly shooting another man during a party — reportedly over a stepped-on shoe.

The incident occurred around 10 p.m. on Saturday, June 21, at a party held at 2269 East South Boulevard. According to court documents, Watkins, 31, became enraged when the victim accidentally stepped on his foot during the gathering. In response, Watkins allegedly pulled out a firearm and shot the victim in the thigh.

Emergency services arrived quickly, and the victim was transported to a nearby hospital with a non-life-threatening gunshot wound. Authorities confirmed that Watkins was taken into custody at the scene without resistance.

Court records state that Watkins “shot [the victim] due to [the victim] accidentally stepping on Watkins’ shoe.” The seemingly minor incident has left many in the community stunned by the rapid escalation into violence.

Watkins is currently being held at the Montgomery County Detention Facility on a $30,000 bond. At this time, it is unclear whether he has secured legal representation or when his next court hearing will be scheduled.

The Montgomery Police Department emphasized the need for peaceful conflict resolution and expressed concern over how quickly a trivial encounter resulted in gunfire. “This is exactly the kind of unnecessary violence we are working to prevent,” one official said. “A simple accident turned into a serious criminal matter that could have ended much worse.”

The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities are continuing to gather witness statements and any available surveillance footage from the area. Anyone with information is urged to contact Montgomery police or submit tips anonymously through Central Alabama CrimeStoppers.