California shop owner gunned down after dispute over pride flag

The incident occurred at the Mag Pi shop in Cedar Glen, California.

Ms Carleton was discovered on the floor of her shop with a bullet wound and was pronounced dead at the scene. The suspect, who fled the scene on foot, was shot and killed shortly after by police.

Police say the man had made “disparaging remarks” about the rainbow flag prior to shooting the victim.

“A lethal force encounter occurred and the suspect was pronounced deceased,” San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner Department said.

Hollywood director Paul Feig, known for works like “Bridesmaids” and “Freaks and Geeks” posted an image of himself with Ms Carleton, describing her as a ”wonderful friend”.

“Our wonderful friend Lauri Carlton (seen in this picture) was murdered yesterday in her store in Lake Arrowhead by a 27 year old man who didn’t like that she had a large pride flag hanging outside of her shop,” he said in an Instagram post.

“He ripped it down and when she confronted him about it he shot and killed her. We are all devastated for her husband Bort and her family and the LGBTQ+ community, for whom Lauri was such a true ally.

“Her alleged murderer was later shot and killed by the San Bernardino police and so no longer poses a threat to the community.

“But this intolerance has to end. Anyone using hateful language against the LGBTQ+ community has to realise their words matter, that their words can inspire violence against innocent loving people. Let’s all keep moving forward with tolerance and love. Let’s not let Lauri’s tragic death be in vain.”

Actress Jill Kargman commented on the post, saying she was “absolutely enraged” at the death of the much-loved shop owner.

“This is DEVASTATING. I’m so furious, what a tragedy of our times- the hatred and the guns – absolutely enraged by this senseless murder and sending you heartfelt condolences and so much love,” she said.

A local group, Lake Arrowhead LGBT, also commented on the tragedy, calling it a “very sad day” for the area, nothing that Laura Ann Carleton was a friend and supporter who defended her LGBTQ+ Pride flags and supported progress in the community.