PSU community mourns shooting death of student

THORNTON — A 21-year-old Plymouth State University student was shot and killed on Monday morning. Police have charged her younger brother with second-degree murder.

Leah Anderson, 21, of Thornton, died at an area hospital from a gunshot wound to the head. Her brother, Logan Anderson, 18, was later charged in her shooting death.

Leah Anderson was a member of the PSU Class of 2027.

PSU Director of Communications Denise Panyik-Dale said Tuesday morning email sent to the entire campus community shared all resources available for students, faculty and staff. 

“Counseling is being offered,” she said.

According to a statement from the state Attorney General’s Office, at 8:20 a.m. on June 8, Thornton and Campton Police officers went to home on Mad River Road, in Thornton, after receiving a 911 call.

Officers found Anderson, who had a head wound. She was taken to the hospital, where she died as a result of the injury.

An autopsy was scheduled to take place on Tuesday.

Thornton Police originally released information on social media on Monday, about an investigation into a shooting on Upper Mad River Road, and the Attorney General’s Office was involved.

Police said Uhlman Drive, and the intersection of Upper Mad River and Mad River roads, in Thornton, were closed, and motorists were asked to seek alternate routes.

The Attorney General’s Office released a statement later on Monday, saying they, along with the State Police Major Crime Unit, Thornton Police and Campton Police responded to a “shooting incident with serious bodily injury.”

Just after 11 p.m. Monday night, the Attorney General’s Office released a statement that Logan Anderson had been charged with one count of second-degree murder for “knowingly causing the death” of Leah Anderson by shooting her.

Logan Anderson was scheduled for a formal reading of his charges in court Tuesday, in Plymouth District Court. 

A message left with Thornton Police Chief Daniel Gilman was not immediately returned.

Michael Garrity, spokesperson for the Attorney General’s Office, declined to comment further on the active investigation. The prepared statement from his office said additional information will be released as it becomes available, in an effort to protect the integrity of the investigation.

The charges and allegations against Logan Anderson are accusations, and he is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

Leah Anderson just finished her third year at PSU, and was studying elementary education and youth development.

The university extends its “deepest condolences” to her family, friends, classmates and professors who “knew and loved her.”

Panyik-Dale said the university will share information about a celebration of life or vigils as it becomes available, likely in the coming days.

The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is available for anyone in crisis, and to share with anyone you know who is struggling. To speak with a trained listener, call 988. Visit 988lifeline.org for crisis chat services and more information.

PSU sent a prepared statement with comments from President Donald L. Birx.

“Those who knew Leah speak of a young woman whose kindness touched those around her," Birx said in the release. "Whether at Plymouth State or in the broader community, she was known for her caring nature, her warmth, and her ability to make others feel valued.”

Birx said PSU community members shared stories about Leah Anderson's kindness and generosity.

“More than one person shared that Leah could brighten someone's day without even realizing it simply because kindness came so naturally to her,” Birx said. “That generosity of spirit is how many will remember her. Our thoughts are with Leah's family, loved ones, and friends during this difficult time. Her loss is deeply felt across the Plymouth State community.”