Professor SHOT Dead By Roommate — Horrific Mistake

A Georgia college professor was fatally shot by her own roommate in a tragic case of mistaken identity that highlights the deadly risks of hasty firearm decisions in American homes.

Story Highlights

Columbus State University theatre professor Erica Blascom Anderson, 31, killed by roommate who mistook her for intruder
Shooting occurred at 1:30 AM in quiet Lakebottom neighborhood after Anderson returned from visiting family
Authorities ruled death accidental; investigation ongoing by Columbus Police Violent Crimes Unit
Incident underscores national data showing firearms in homes increase accidental death risks rather than providing protection

Fatal Mistake in Early Morning Hours

Erica Blascom Anderson was shot and killed by her roommate at approximately 1:30 AM on October 13, 2025, at their shared residence in the 1600 block of 17th Avenue in Columbus, Georgia. The 31-year-old lecturer in Columbus State University’s Department of Theatre & Dance had recently returned from visiting family when the tragic misidentification occurred. Police responded immediately to the scene, but Anderson was pronounced dead upon their arrival.

Promising Academic Career Cut Short

Anderson had recently joined Columbus State University’s faculty, teaching costume design and managing the costume shop for the Theatre & Dance department. The university community has been deeply affected by her sudden loss, with President Dr. Stuart Eddings Rayfield addressing students and staff while offering counseling and support services. Her colleagues and students remember her as a dedicated professional who brought enthusiasm to her new role in the academic community.

Investigation Reveals Accidental Nature

The Muscogee County Coroner officially ruled Anderson’s death accidental, while the Columbus Police Department’s Violent Crimes Unit continues investigating the circumstances surrounding the shooting. Anderson’s body was sent to the Georgia Bureau of Investigation for autopsy to determine additional details. No criminal charges have been announced as of the investigation’s current status, and the roommate’s name has not been released publicly.

Home Firearms Create Deadly Risks

This tragedy reflects broader national concerns about firearm safety in domestic settings. Research consistently demonstrates that firearms in homes significantly increase risks of accidental shootings, assaults, and deaths rather than providing the protective benefits many Americans believe they offer. Studies show that for every legitimate self-defense use of a firearm in homes, there are substantially more unintentional shootings, with most occurring among people known to each other rather than strangers.

The Columbus State University community continues mourning Anderson’s loss while grappling with questions about shared housing safety and the split-second decisions that can turn protective intentions into irreversible tragedies. This incident serves as a sobering reminder that responsible firearm ownership requires not just proper storage and training, but also clear communication and identification protocols in shared living situations.