Southern California Clothing Store Owner Shot and Killed in LGBTQ+ Hate Crime

Southern California clothing store owner shot and killed after argument over Pride flag

A tragic incident unfolded in Southern California when a clothing store owner was shot and killed following an argument about a rainbow Pride flag hanging outside her business. The victim, identified as Laura Ann “Lauri” Carleton, 66, was shot at her store, Mag.Pi, in Cedar Glen, located about 80 miles east of Los Angeles. The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that Carleton died from a gunshot wound on Friday evening.

The suspected shooter, Travis Ikeguchi, 27, also lost his life after engaging in a shootout with deputies. Ikeguchi had torn down the Pride flag and directed homophobic slurs towards Carleton before shooting her, according to Sheriff Shannon Dicus. The sheriff’s office stated that Ikeguchi had made several disparaging remarks about the flag prior to the shooting.

Fortunately, no deputies were injured during the encounter with Ikeguchi. However, this incident highlights the ongoing violence and threats faced by the LGBTQ+ community across America. The Human Rights Campaign has reported an unprecedented wave of anti-LGBTQ+ legislation in 2023, leading to a state of emergency for the community.

Carleton, although not identifying as LGBTQ+, was known for advocating for everyone in the community, as stated by the organization Lake Arrowhead LGBTQ+. Her tragic death has left a void in the community, and she will be deeply missed.

California Governor Gavin Newsom expressed his horror at the shooting, emphasizing that such hate has no place in the state. The motive behind Carleton’s killing is still under investigation.

Authorities discovered that Ikeguchi had social media accounts containing anti-LGBTQ+ and anti-law enforcement material. Platforms such as Twitter (recently rebranded as X) and Gab, popular among far-right extremists, were used by the suspect. An X account belonging to Ikeguchi contained numerous anti-LGBTQ+ posts, including a burning Pride flag as its pinned post.

Hollywood director Paul Feig paid tribute to Carleton, describing her as a wonderful friend and a true ally to the LGBTQ+ community. Feig called for an end to intolerance and emphasized the impact of hateful language, which can inspire violence against innocent and loving individuals.

Carleton’s boutique, Mag.Pi, offered a variety of items, including shoes, clothing, jewelry, vintage pieces, and gifts. Her passion for fashion began early in life, as she worked in her family’s clothing shop and attended ArtCenter College of Design in Pasadena, California.

Carleton and her husband were married for 28 years and had a blended family of nine children. Their shared interests included traveling, architecture, design, fine art, food, and fashion.

The investigation into the motive behind Carleton’s killing is ongoing, and CNN’s Jason Hanna contributed to this report.

What measures can be implemented to prevent and combat hate crimes in our society?

Tragedies that can occur as a result of hatred and intolerance. The loss of a beloved member of the community has sent shockwaves throughout Southern California.

Carleton was a well-known and respected business owner who had created a welcoming and inclusive space at Mag.Pi. Her decision to proudly display the Pride flag was a representation of her support for the LGBTQ+ community. It is incredibly disheartening that such a simple act of solidarity resulted in her untimely death.

The incident serves as a stark reminder of the discrimination and prejudice that still exists in our society. It is a devastating blow to those fighting for equality and acceptance. Carleton’s tragic death also highlights the need for stronger measures to combat hate crimes and to promote understanding and tolerance.

The swift response by law enforcement officials is commendable. Deputies were able to neutralize the shooter, preventing any further harm to innocent bystanders. However, the fact that a dispute over a Pride flag escalated to such a violent confrontation is deeply concerning.

In the aftermath of this tragedy, the community has rallied together to offer support and condolences to Carleton’s family and friends. Countless people have expressed their outrage over the senseless act of violence, vowing to continue the fight against hate and bigotry.

As we mourn the loss of Carleton, let this serve as a reminder that we must remain vigilant in our pursuit of a more inclusive and accepting society. No one should fear for their safety or their lives simply because of who they are or what they believe in. It is crucial that we stand together against hate and stand up for love, equality, and human rights.