California Shop Owner Fatally Shot Over Displayed Pride Flag
A heart-wrenching incident in Southern California has led to the tragic loss of a beloved shop owner, Lauri Carleton. She was fatally shot outside her store, Mag. Pi, in Cedar Glen, reportedly due to her display of a Pride flag. The incident has sparked widespread tributes and anger, with California Governor Gavin Newsom expressing his outrage and Hollywood Director Paul Feig highlighting the danger of anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric.
The Shooting and its Aftermath: Lauri Carleton, a 66-year-old shop owner, met an untimely end as she was shot outside her Mag.Pi store in Cedar Glen. San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Office reported that deputies, responding to a shooting call, found Carleton had been shot. Despite their efforts, Carleton was pronounced dead at the scene.
Capture of the Suspect: Following the shooting, authorities located the suspect who had fled the scene on foot, still armed. The situation escalated when deputies engaged with the suspect, ultimately leading to a fatal outcome for the assailant. However, details about the events leading up to the encounter remain undisclosed.
LGBTQ+ Advocacy and Mourning: Lauri Carleton’s tragic death has prompted an outpouring of support from the community. Local food cooperative Mountain Provisions hailed her as a dear friend and a vibrant soul. Carleton’s involvement in organizing the co-op, which offered aid to the community during challenging times, speaks volumes about her dedication and compassion.
Remembering Lauri Carleton: The co-op encouraged individuals to honor Carleton’s memory by performing acts of kindness and displaying Pride flags. Carleton’s legacy as a caring, strong-willed individual who impacted many lives will not be forgotten.
Governor’s Outrage and Director’s Warning: California Governor Gavin Newsom expressed his strong condemnation of the incident, labeling it “absolutely horrific” and denouncing the presence of such “disgusting hate” in the state. Hollywood Director Paul Feig, a friend of Carleton, highlighted the dangerous implications of anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric, underlining the importance of combating such negativity.
This is absolutely horrific.
A shop owner has been shot and killed by a man after he criticized the pride flag hanging outside her business.
Lauri leaves behind her husband and 9 children.
This disgusting hate has no place in CA. https://t.co/1Fk4IKnIRB
— Gavin Newsom (@GavinNewsom) August 20, 2023
Community Unity and Resilience: As the news spreads across social media, users are voicing their sorrow and solidarity. The tragic event has prompted individuals to reflect on the courage Carleton displayed by flying the Pride flag, even in conservative areas. Her resilience serves as an inspiration for others to stand up for their beliefs.
A Life Honored: Lauri Carleton’s life journey was marked by her dedication to her family, her work, and her community. From her involvement in the fashion industry to her role in the co-op, she left a lasting impact. Outside her store, a growing memorial of flowers and Pride flags stands as a tribute to her memory.
Lauri Carleton was my friend. She was a wonderful person who did so much for the LGBTQ+ community as well as the community at large. What happened to her is an absolute tragedy. If people don’t think anti-gay & trans rhetoric isn’t dangerous, think again. https://t.co/BsrckyUN9t
— Paul Feig (@paulfeig) August 19, 2023
The loss of Lauri Carleton is a somber reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community and the significance of promoting understanding and acceptance. As tributes continue to pour in, her memory will serve as a source of strength and inspiration in the ongoing fight against hate and discrimination.
