Tragic Shooting at California Store Leaves Owner Dead After Disparaging Comments About Pride Flag
Cedar Glen, Calif. – In a shocking incident that has left the community in mourning, Laura Ann Carleton, the owner of Mag.Pi clothing store in the San Bernardino mountains, was fatally shot on Friday evening. The shooting occurred after a man made disparaging comments about the store’s Pride flag, according to authorities.
Carleton, 66, was known for her unwavering support of the L.G.B.T.Q. community. Despite repeated incidents of the rainbow Pride flag being torn down from her store, Carleton responded by putting up an even bigger one each time.
The suspect, whose identity has not been released, fled the scene on foot. However, law enforcement officials were able to locate him and a confrontation ensued, resulting in his death. The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department stated that the suspect had made several disparaging remarks about the rainbow flag before shooting Carleton.
It remains unclear whether the shooting is being investigated as a hate crime, and further details about the incident have not been released at this time.
The shooting took place in Cedar Glen, near Lake Arrowhead, and comes just a month after the Anti-Defamation League and the L.G.B.T.Q. advocacy group GLAAD released a report highlighting an increase in anti-L.G.B.T.Q. harassment, vandalism, and assault in the United States.
Carleton’s daughter, Ari Carleton, described her mother as “fearless” and someone who always prioritized the needs of others. She was a pillar in the community and known for her acts of kindness and generosity. When a rare blizzard hit the area earlier this year, Carleton and her husband converted their store into a relief center, providing supplies to those in need.
Carleton’s values of love, acceptance, and equality were reflected in her store, where she curated a collection of high-quality and ethically sourced clothes, sometimes even designing her own pieces.
Friends and acquaintances have spoken out about Carleton’s impact on their lives. Paul Feig, the film director, described her as a “force of nature” who genuinely cared about people.
Although Carleton did not identify as LGBTQ+, her store, Mag.Pi, was listed as a “business ally” by Lake Arrowhead LGBTQ+, a community group. The group expressed their grief on Facebook, stating that Carleton will be truly missed for her dedication to helping and advocating for everyone in the community.
As the community mourns the loss of Carleton, plans are underway for a vigil once the threat of Tropical Storm Hilary clears.
Carleton is survived by her husband and nine children. Her daughter, Ari Carleton, expressed her desire for her mother to be remembered for who she was and the passion she had for defending what was important to her.
At Carleton’s Lake Arrowhead home, her family discovered a package that had been left at the doorstep. Inside was a new Pride flag, as the one at the store had begun to fade. It serves as a reminder of Carleton’s unwavering commitment to her beliefs and the legacy she leaves behind.
In the wake of this incident, what measures are community members and leaders calling for to increase protection for marginalized groups and raise awareness of hate crimes
E tragic shooting at a Pride parade in Florida, where one person was killed and another injured. The incident has sparked renewed conversations about the safety and protection of the L.G.B.T.Q. community.
Carleton’s death has sent shockwaves through the small community of Cedar Glen, where she was well-respected and beloved. Friends and customers remember her as a strong advocate for equality and acceptance.
Carleton’s commitment to displaying the Pride flag despite repeated acts of vandalism and hostility serves as a testament to her unwavering support for the community. Her bravery and resilience in the face of adversity will not be forgotten.
Authorities are actively investigating the shooting and are working to determine if it should be classified as a hate crime. In the wake of this tragic incident, community members and leaders are calling for increased protection for marginalized groups and greater awareness of hate crimes.
This heartbreaking incident serves as a reminder of the work that still needs to be done to achieve equality and acceptance for all. Carleton’s death has deeply affected the community, and her memory will live on as a symbol of strength and determination.
As the investigation continues, the community of Cedar Glen is coming together to mourn and support one another. Vigils and memorials have been organized to honor Carleton’s life and to stand in solidarity against hate and violence.
The loss of Laura Ann Carleton is a devastating blow to not only her loved ones, but also to the entire community. It is a harsh reminder that hate and discrimination still exist, and that we must continue the fight for a world where everyone feels safe and accepted.
Carleton’s legacy will continue to inspire others to stand up against injustice and to advocate for a more inclusive society. Her bravery and compassion will not be forgotten, and her memory will forever be cherished by those whose lives she touched.
