Tragic Killing of California Store Owner Over Pride Flag Sparks Outrage

Lauri Carleton, a California store owner and mother of nine, had ordered a larger Pride flag shortly before being shot and killed by a homophobic man who opposed the rainbow banner outside her store. The family found the new flag in a package on their doorstep the day she died. Carleton, who was an unwavering supporter of the LGBTQ+ community, had replaced several torn-down flags and had bought a new one to replace a faded one. Despite the hate she faced, Carleton stood up for what she believed in and inspired countless people. The shooter, who made anti-LGBTQ+ remarks, was later killed in an exchange of gunfire with the police.