Tragic Killing of California Store Owner Sparks Outrage over Pride Flag
Travis Ikeguchi, a 27-year-old man, has been identified as the gunman who shot and killed Laura Ann Carleton, a California store owner, following an argument over a Pride flag outside her shop. Ikeguchi made disparaging remarks about the flag before tearing it down and shooting Carleton. He was later killed by police during a confrontation. Carleton, a mother of nine, was known for her support of the LGBTQ+ community and her dedication to creating a safe and inclusive space in her store. The incident highlights the rise in anti-LGBTQ+ hate crimes across the United States.