COLUMBUS, GEORGIA — Tragic Mistaken Identity Shooting Claims Life of Erica Blascom Anderson in Her Own Home
COLUMBUS, GEORGIA — What began as a quiet early morning in a suburban neighborhood turned to heartbreak when Erica Blascom Anderson, 31, was fatally shot inside her home after being mistaken for an intruder. The tragedy unfolded around 1:30 a.m. Monday, leaving the Columbus community stunned and grieving a loss that police say appears to have been a tragic accident.
According to investigators, Anderson had just returned home after a weekend visit with her husband and children in Indiana. Moments after unlocking her front door, she was struck by a bullet fired by her roommate, who believed a break-in was underway. The roommate, startled awake and fearing for her safety, fired two rounds — the second fatally wounding Anderson in the entryway of her own home.
Emergency responders arrived within minutes after frantic 911 calls were made from the residence. Despite their efforts, Anderson was pronounced dead at the scene by the Muscogee County Coroner. Authorities later confirmed that she suffered a single gunshot wound to the torso. The shock of the event rippled through the neighborhood as police began piecing together the heartbreaking details.
Investigators say the shooting was accidental, emphasizing that there are no indications of foul play. However, they noted that the roommate had been under emotional strain in recent days. Police reports reveal she had recently received violent threats from her son, circumstances that may have heightened her state of fear and contributed to the tragic misjudgment.
Neighbors described hearing two loud gunshots followed by screaming. “It was terrifying,” said one nearby resident. “Then the sirens came, and we realized something horrible had happened right next door.” Many in the area have since expressed sorrow and disbelief, struggling to comprehend how such a fatal mistake could occur in an otherwise quiet community.
Columbus Police have confirmed that the weapon used was legally owned. Investigators collected the firearm as evidence and are conducting ballistic testing to verify details of the shooting sequence. Authorities have not filed charges at this time but say the case will be reviewed by the district attorney’s office once the investigation is complete.
Erica Blascom Anderson was a respected theatre lecturer at Columbus State University, known for her creativity, compassion, and dedication to her students. University officials issued a statement Monday afternoon describing Anderson as “a gifted educator and an inspiring spirit whose presence enriched every classroom she entered.” The university community is now offering grief counseling to students and faculty members affected by her sudden loss.
Friends and colleagues have shared heartfelt tributes online, remembering Anderson for her warmth and talent. “She loved her craft and cared deeply about her students,” one friend wrote. “This is a loss that words can’t describe.” Vigils are being planned in her honor as the community gathers to celebrate her life and mourn her passing.
COLUMBUS Police emphasized the importance of firearm safety and identification before discharging a weapon, reminding residents that fear-driven reactions can have irreversible consequences. The department urged gun owners to take extra precautions, particularly during late-night hours when confusion and darkness can lead to tragedy.
As the investigation continues, Columbus mourns the loss of a beloved educator, daughter, and friend. What was meant to be an ordinary homecoming ended in unimaginable tragedy — a reminder of how fear, in a single moment, can alter lives forever. The community now seeks healing, holding Erica Blascom Anderson’s memory close as they navigate the sorrow left behind.
