Erica Bascom Anderson, Columbus State University Professor, Fatally Shot by Roommate in Tragic Mistaken Identity Incident [PHOTOS]

A Georgia theater professor, identified as Erica Bascom Anderson, was tragically shot and killed by her roommate on Monday night after being mistaken for an intruder at their shared home in Columbus, Georgia. Authorities have ruled the shooting accidental, and no charges have been filed.

According to reports, the 41-year-old Columbus State University (CSU) lecturer had just returned home around midnight after visiting her husband and children in Indiana. Anderson was renting a room in the residence she shared with an unidentified roommate.

Investigations revealed that the roommate had recently been receiving violent threats from her son, who had allegedly vowed to harm her and burn down her home. Terrified and on edge, the woman awoke to noises late Monday night, retrieved her firearm, and walked into the hallway — believing an intruder had entered the house.

Erica Bascom Anderson theater professor shot dead by roommate after thinking she was intruder. Victim pictured with husband.

 

Tragically, she fired her gun, missing Anderson with the first shot but fatally striking her with the second.

Authorities from Muscogee County confirmed that Anderson died at the scene. The county coroner, Buddy Bryan, described the shooting as “a devastating accident.”

“You have to think about the roommate that shot her. I’m sure she’s devastated as anyone would be under the circumstances,” Bryan told WTVM News.

Anderson’s body has since been transported to the Georgia State Crime Lab for autopsy.

The tragedy comes shortly after Anderson joined Columbus State University’s Department of Theatre & Dance this fall as a lecturer in costume design and supervisor of the costume shop. She previously taught at Southern Utah University and the University of Florida, and also worked with prominent institutions including Sarasota Opera and Indiana Repertory Theatre.

A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to help cover funeral costs and support her family. The page describes Anderson as a “devoted wife, mother, and educator” who leaves behind her husband — currently undergoing cancer treatment — and their three children.

In a family statement, loved ones expressed their grief:

“Our family is still in shock as we try to comprehend how something so horrific could happen. Erica was taken from us far too soon, at only 41 years old, in an act of violence that never should have occurred.”

Authorities have ruled out foul play, though some community members have raised questions about possible negligence. Police say the investigation remains ongoing.