Woman Shot and Killed After Hanging a Rainbow Flag

We want to start by saying, there are no words for how sad we feel for this victim and her family. Lauri Carleton was an ally showing her love and support for our community and was killed for hanging up a Pride flag outside her store. We are told she was a long time ally to the LGBTQ + community and put up the flag in hopes to inspire others in her mountain community to be more open minded.

Now outside her shop, there is a sign that read, "Peace Begins with a Smile, " and the front of her shop has sadly become a memorial. (see photos below) Even more shocking this happened in California, where usually the LGBTQ community feels safe. More info below.

Via THE SUN

The owner of a clothing shop in Cedar Glen ( California) was shot and killed Friday night, Aug. 18, after a person made several disparaging comments about a rainbow flag displayed outside the store, authorities said.

The suspect was found nearby by arriving deputies, who shot and killed him, San Bernardino County sheriff’s officials said.

Deputies responded to the Magpi clothing store on Hook Creek Road around 5 p.m. and found the victim, identified as Laura Ann Carleton, 66, outside the store suffering from a gunshot wound.

Carleton was pronounced dead at the scene.

Deputies received information the suspect, a man, was seen on Torrey Road east of Highway 173 and found him near Rouse Ranch Road, about a mile north of the store, officials said. What led up to authorities shooting him was not immediately disclosed.

Lauri was beloved by the community and known for being loving and supportive of her family, friends, customers, and even strangers.

Wildflowers at the Lake are helping collect donations to go to the family and the business. You can reach them at 909-337-8248. We will keep you updated if there is a GoFundMe, but at the time of this post, we could not find one.

Photo of Lauri Carleton