In the early hours of Monday morning, tragedy struck the Lakebottom neighborhood of Columbus, Georgia. Erica Blascom Anderson, a 31-year-old lecturer at Columbus State University (CSU), was fatally shot in what authorities have determined to be an accidental incident.
According to Muscogee County Coroner Buddy Bryan, the shooting occurred around 1:30 a.m. at a residence on the 1600 block of 17th Avenue. Bryan confirmed that Anderson was pronounced dead at the scene. The circumstances surrounding the incident led investigators to conclude that it was an accidental shooting, with no signs of foul play. The Columbus Police Department’s Violent Crimes Unit is continuing to investigate the details of the case.
Anderson, originally from Indiana, had recently joined CSU as a lecturer in the Department of Theatre & Dance. She was also responsible for supervising the costume shop, a role that highlighted her dedication to the arts and her students. Colleagues and students alike have described her as a passionate and creative individual who deeply cared about her work and the people around her.
The news of her untimely passing has sent shockwaves through the CSU community. University officials have expressed their heartfelt condolences, remembering Anderson as a valued member of their academic family whose talent and kindness will be greatly missed.
As the investigation continues, the Lakebottom neighborhood and the broader Columbus community are left to mourn the loss of a promising educator and a beloved colleague. The incident serves as a somber reminder of the fragility of life and the unexpected tragedies that can alter the course of many lives in an instant.
In the coming days, CSU plans to hold a memorial service to honor Anderson’s memory and contributions to the university. Details of the service will be shared with the community once arrangements are finalized.
For now, those who knew Erica Blascom Anderson are left with cherished memories of a woman who brought passion, creativity, and warmth to all she did. Her legacy will undoubtedly live on in the hearts of her students, colleagues, and the many lives she touched during her time at Columbus State University.