Tragic Death of Erica Bascom Anderson: Columbus State University Lecturer Accidentally Shot by Roommate
The tragic death of Erica Bascom Anderson, a 41-year-old theatre lecturer at Columbus State University, has shaken the Columbus, Georgia community after she was accidentally shot by her roommate, who mistook her for an intruder amid escalating personal threats. The heartbreaking incident, which occurred just after Anderson returned home from visiting her cancer-stricken husband and children in Indiana, has ignited urgent discussions about gun safety, mental health, and home security in shared living spaces. As authorities continue their investigation, friends, students, and family remember Anderson as a devoted educator, artist, and mother whose life was cut short in an unimaginable act of mistaken fear.
Tragic Loss of Erica Bascom Anderson: What Happened and Why It Matters
In a heartbreaking turn of events, Erica Bascom Anderson, a 41-year-old theatre lecturer at Columbus State University (CSU), was accidentally shot and killed by her roommate in Columbus, Georgia, on the night of October 13, 2025. Authorities have described the tragedy as a case of mistaken identity, triggered by fear and confusion following prior threats to the household. The devastating incident has sparked conversations about gun safety, mental health, and the challenges of shared living—while leaving a university community in mourning for a beloved educator, wife, and mother.
The Night of the Shooting: A Tragic Mistake at Home
According to reports, Erica Anderson had just returned from visiting her husband and three children in Indiana, where her husband is undergoing cancer treatment. Arriving at her Columbus residence around midnight, she quietly entered the house she shared with her roommate near Lakebottom Park.
Her roommate, who had been living under intense stress after receiving violent threats from her son, mistook the late-night noises for an intruder. Acting out of fear, she grabbed her firearm and fired two shots in the hallway—the second of which fatally struck Anderson.
Muscogee County Coroner Buddy Bryan described the event as a devastating accident, emphasizing the emotional toll on both women and the ongoing investigation.
Who Was Erica Bascom Anderson?
Erica Bascom Anderson was a passionate and accomplished theatre professional, known for her expertise in costume design and stage production. She had recently joined Columbus State University’s Department of Theatre and Dance for the Fall 2025 semester, contributing her experience from roles at Southern Utah University, the University of Florida, and institutions like Sarasota Opera and Indiana Repertory Theatre.
Her dedication to theatre education left a lasting mark on her students and colleagues. CSU President Stuart Rayfield expressed deep sorrow, noting that Anderson’s enthusiasm “brought life to our classrooms and inspired everyone she taught.”
A Family’s Heartbreaking Loss
Behind the professional achievements lay a devoted wife and mother. Erica leaves behind her husband, Andy (John) Anderson, who continues to battle cancer, and their three children—Jade, Noah, and Sky.
A GoFundMe campaign has been launched by family friend Keri Dattilo to assist with funeral expenses and ongoing family needs. The fundraiser notes:
“Erica tragically lost her life in what appears to have been a terrible accident. Please help support her family as they navigate life without her.”
You can donate to support the family at: GoFundMe – Erica Bascom Anderson.
Gun Safety and Shared Living: Lessons from a Tragedy
The death of Erica Anderson underscores the urgent need for firearm safety awareness and crisis preparedness in homes facing threats or mental health pressures.
Authorities revealed that the roommate had been receiving terroristic threats from her son, including threats of violence and arson. These circumstances likely heightened her fear and reaction time when she heard noises that night.
While Georgia law permits lawful gun ownership, experts are calling for enhanced safety education, especially in shared homes and situations involving prior trauma or ongoing threats. The case has reignited national discussions on how fear, stress, and firearms can create deadly outcomes when communication breaks down.
Community Mourning and Ongoing Investigation
Police continue to investigate the incident, though no criminal charges are expected, consistent with the ruling of accidental death. Anderson’s body has been sent to the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) for a full autopsy, while Columbus State University and the theatre community have organized memorial tributes in her honor.
The Columbus community has come together to remember Erica not just as a victim, but as a teacher, artist, and mother whose impact will endure through her students and her work.
In Memory of Erica Bascom Anderson
Erica’s story is a reminder of both the fragility of life and the need for compassion and safety awareness in our homes. Her tragic death highlights the ripple effects of fear, the importance of responsible gun handling, and the value of empathy in times of uncertainty.
As her family, students, and colleagues continue to grieve, Erica’s legacy as an educator, artist, and loving mother remains a guiding light for those who knew her best.