Pierre Robert Colas, assistant professor of anthropology at Vanderbilt, was shot and killed in his home last night. Police are investigating the shooting, which also critically injured Colas’ sister who was visiting from Switzerland. So far, no motive has been established, but there were no signs of forced entry.
 

Colas’ research focused on Classic Maya culture, and the 32-year-old scholar was a highly respected member of the school’s anthropology department:

“We are profoundly shocked and saddened by the tragic loss of our colleague, Pierre,” Provost Richard McCarty said in an e-mail message to the campus. “Pierre was a talented young scholar who joined the Vanderbilt faculty in 2006. In his relatively brief time at Vanderbilt, he earned the respect of his colleagues and students, and his absence will be profoundly felt. He was a kind and gentle person and a devoted colleague, mentor and friend.”

OTR sends its condolences to his friends, family and colleagues.