California Store Owner Fatally Shot While Defending Pride Flag
A tragic incident took place on Friday in California when Laura Ann Carleton, a 66-year-old store owner, was shot and killed while defending a rainbow Pride flag outside her shop. Ms. Carleton, the owner of Mag.Pi clothing store in the San Bernardino mountains, had been a staunch supporter of the LGBTQ+ community and continuously responded to acts of vandalism against the flag by putting up an even bigger one.
According to authorities, the shooting occurred around 5 p.m. when a man, whose identity remains undisclosed, made derogatory remarks about the Pride flag before the attack. Fleeing the scene on foot, he was later intercepted by law enforcement and fatally shot during the encounter.
The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department stated that the suspect had expressed disdain towards the rainbow flag prior to the shooting. While it remains unclear whether the incident is being investigated as a hate crime, it highlights the growing concerns raised by organizations like the Anti-Defamation League and GLAAD regarding the increase in anti-LGBTQ+ harassment, vandalism, and assault in the United States.
Described by her daughter, Ari Carleton, as a fearless individual who prioritized the needs of others, Laura Ann Carleton was an integral part of her community. Beyond her dedication to her store, she extended her support to those affected by natural disasters, such as when she transformed her shop into a relief center during a recent blizzard.
Mag.Pi, renowned for its collection of ethically sourced, high-quality clothing, was constantly targeted by individuals tearing down the Pride flag. Despite not identifying as LGBTQ+, Laura Ann Carleton displayed immense love, acceptance, and equality, which resonated throughout her store. In fact, Lake Arrowhead LGBTQ+ recognized Mag.Pi as a business ally due to Laura’s unwavering advocacy for the community.
The loss of Laura Ann Carleton has left her family and community devastated. Her husband, Bort Carleton, and nine children survive her. Despite the tragedy, her loved ones want the world to remember her for who she was—an incredible individual who defended what she believed in, doing so in a place she cherished.
The Lake Arrowhead LGBTQ+ community group plans to hold a vigil for Laura when the situation with Tropical Storm Hilary clears. This gesture aims to celebrate her legacy and the impact she had on so many lives.
In the aftermath of the shooting, Laura’s family discovered a package left at their Lake Arrowhead home. Recognizing that the flag at the store had begun to fade, Laura had ordered a new one before her untimely death—an enduring symbol of her commitment to standing up for what she believed in.
As the investigation continues, communities across California mourn the loss of a remarkable individual who dedicated her life to promoting love, acceptance, and equality. Laura Ann Carleton’s spirit and unwavering support will be remembered by those whose lives she touched, forever leaving an indelible mark on her community and the fight for LGBTQ+ rights.
