A store owner was killed on Friday, August 18, in what authorities say was a dispute over a Pride flag that was displayed outside her clothing shop.
According to the San Bernardino Sheriff’s Department, Laura Ann Carleton, a mother of nine, was pronounced dead at around 5 pm, after deputies responded to the shooting which took place at the Mag Pi store.
Carleton, who was well-known in the community as an advocate for equality and justice, had displayed a rainbow flag outside her store. This reportedly attracted disparaging remarks from the suspect who tried to pull down the flag.
The assailant, Travis Ikeguchi, 27, fled the scene but deputies later caught up with him and he was killed in a “lethal force encounter,” after he shot at them the Sheriff’s Department said. There is an ongoing investigation into the incident. His social media site showed strongly homophobic posts and comments.
Carleton, 66, had a lengthy career in fashion, of which she had spent 15 years as an executive at Kenneth Cole. She was also instrumental in organizing a free store for local residents after a blizzard struck the area earlier this year. The store’s website described Carleton as a loving and dedicated mother, married for 28 years.
In a statement, the Mountain Provisions Cooperative, a local grocery store, paid tribute to Carleton, calling her a pillar of the community who fought for love, justice, and equality. Similarly, Lake Arrowhead LGBTQ+ praised Carleton’s commitment to creating a safe space in her store for everyone.
Carleton’s death prompted an outpouring of grief and condolences on social media. Among the tributes was one from “Bridesmaids” film director Paul Feig, who remembered Carleton as a person full of life and love.
In response to her death, Carleton’s family, friends, and community members have been encouraged to fly their flags in her honor as a testament to her unwavering support for equality and love.
