Man Arrested After Shooting Over Cigarette Dispute In Bacliff

BACLIFF, Texas – A Galveston County man has been arrested following a shooting that reportedly stemmed from an argument over a cigarette.

On March 13, 2026, Galveston County Sheriff’s deputies responded to the 4400 block of 18th Street in Bacliff in reference to a shooting.

When deputies arrived, they found a victim suffering from a gunshot wound to the lower abdomen.

Through interviews with the victim and witnesses, investigators identified 42-year-old Michael William Collins as the suspect. Authorities said the shooting occurred after a verbal altercation escalated, during which Collins allegedly shot the victim with a handgun.

Deputies later located Collins and took him into custody without incident.

The Sheriff’s Office Major Crimes Unit and Crime Scene Unit responded to continue the investigation and process evidence. Officials said the victim positively identified Collins as the shooter.

The case was presented to the Galveston County District Attorney’s Office. Collins has been charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, and his bond was denied.