Tragic Shooting in Columbus, Georgia

A mother of three, whose husband had been fighting cancer, was tragically shot by her roommate in an incident that police say was a case of mistaken identity. The shooting happened as Erica Anderson, 31, returned to her rented apartment after a visit to family in Indiana on October 13.

A spokesperson from the Columbus, Georgia, police department confirmed that the investigation is still ongoing and additional details are not being released at this time.

Muscogee County Coroner Buddy Bryan indicated that Anderson had come back home just after midnight. During this time, her roommate, who had allegedly received various threats of violence from her son, reacted to a noise by grabbing a handgun. In a tragic turn of events, she fired two shots, injuring Anderson.

Local media reported that the shooting has been ruled accidental, and Anderson’s body will be sent for an autopsy to the state crime lab. Bryan mentioned that he feels for the roommate who shot Anderson, stating, “I have to think about her. She’s likely just as devastated as anyone could be in such a situation.”

Anderson had only recently moved to Columbus, where she began her role as a first-year professor in the theater and dance department at Columbus State University. Before this, she had taught at Southern Utah University and the University of Florida.

CSU President Stuart Layfield expressed condolences, saying, “Our hearts and prayers go out to her family, friends, and the students she impacted.”

A GoFundMe page established for Anderson’s family describes her as “passionate about her work and her students.” She leaves behind three children and a husband in Indianapolis, who is currently undergoing cancer treatment, which makes this devastating loss even more poignant for the family.