Ruston, LA – Ruston, Louisiana, mourns the loss of local artist Annie Richardson, who tragically passed away after a stabbing incident at Louisiana Tech campus. The Northeast Louisiana Arts Council confirmed her untimely demise through a poignant social media post, expressing condolences to Richardson’s family and friends, as well as the Ruston and Louisiana Tech communities.
Annie Richardson, a celebrated mixed-media artist from Louisiana renowned for her canvas works, pursued her artistic endeavors after completing her Bachelor of Fine Arts degree at the University of Colorado in Boulder. Her creative journey included studies at prestigious institutions like the Sarah Lawrence College of Art in Lacoste, France, and Newcomb College in New Orleans. Residing in Ruston, Richardson showcased her art in numerous exhibitions across the state, passionately supported by her devoted husband, Peter.
Adele Sypesteyn Studio posted on Facebook,
“I want to honor Annie Richardson and her dedication to the arts. She died yesterday from a random act of violence. She was a dedicated and very talented artist and brought beauty into so many homes. My heart breaks for her family.”
Tragedy struck when Richardson became one of the four individuals stabbed on the Louisiana Tech campus, an incident that led to her untimely demise. Jacoby Johnson, the 23-year-old suspect in the stabbing, now faces charges of second-degree murder and attempted second-degree murder following Monday’s events.
Witnesses recounted the horrifying incident involving Richardson, retired judge Cynthia Woodard, and two others leaving the Lambright Sports and Wellness Center when Johnson carried out the attack. Colin Campbell, a Tech freshman, responded to their distress, aiding Richardson and Woodard and swiftly transporting them to the hospital. Richardson, sustaining severe injuries including a cut to her throat, was airlifted to a Shreveport hospital, while two other victims received medical attention in Ruston.
Police reports indicate that the attack on Richardson and others was random, leading to shock and grief within the Louisiana Tech community. The university swiftly organized counseling services and support initiatives for affected students, offering both individual and group sessions at Keeny Hall 310 and a daily group counseling schedule throughout the week.
In solidarity with the victims, the Student Center will host a campus blood drive on Thursday, inviting Ruston residents to participate in support of those affected by the tragic incident. Additionally, the family of Annie Richardson will release details regarding her obituary and funeral arrangements at a later date.
