Paul Feig, the acclaimed filmmaker known for movies like “Bridesmaids,” recently shared a heartfelt tribute on social media in memory of his friend, Laura Ann Carleton. Carleton was tragically shot and killed after getting into an argument with a man about the Pride flag she had proudly displayed outside of her store.
According to the San Bernardino Sheriff’s Department, Carleton was found with a gunshot wound in her store, Mag.Pi, last Friday. Despite efforts to save her, she was pronounced dead at the scene. The incident has shocked and saddened the LGBTQ community and those who knew Carleton.
Feig took to Instagram to express his devastation and support for Carleton’s family and the LGBTQ community. He shared a picture of Carleton and revealed that she was murdered by a 27-year-old man who took issue with her large Pride flag. When Carleton confronted him about tearing it down, he shot and killed her. Feig described Carleton as a “true ally” to the LGBTQ community and called for an end to such acts of intolerance.
Authorities were alerted to the suspect’s presence near the shooting location and were able to locate him. When they attempted to approach him, a confrontation ensued, resulting in the suspect being killed. Feig acknowledged the swift action taken by the police to ensure the safety of the community but emphasized the need for a change in attitudes towards the LGBTQ+ community.
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Feig urged people to realize the impact of their words and the potential for violence they can inspire. He pleaded for tolerance and love to prevail, with Carleton’s tragic death serving as a reminder of the importance of promoting acceptance. It’s a call to action for society to come together and eliminate the hatred and discrimination that can lead to such devastating acts.
Further investigation by the sheriff’s department revealed that the suspect had made disparaging remarks about the rainbow flag outside Carleton’s store before the shooting. Feig shared these details on Twitter, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the danger of anti-gay and trans rhetoric.
Bridgett Everett, star of the show “Somebody Somewhere,” also paid tribute to Carleton, noting that this wasn’t the first time her flags had attracted negativity. Despite previous incidents where the flags were taken down or vandalized, Carleton remained resilient, putting up new ones in their place. Everett shared her heartbreak over Carleton’s tragic loss and questioned the motive behind such acts of hate.
Carleton’s husband, daughters, friends, and community are now left devastated by this senseless act of violence. The LGBTQ community has lost a passionate advocate, and Carleton’s memory serves as a powerful reminder of the repercussions of hatred and intolerance.
In a world that continues to strive for equality and acceptance, it’s crucial to remember that words have consequences. The harmful rhetoric targeting the LGBTQ+ community can escalate into violence, resulting in devastating and unnecessary loss. Carleton’s death should not be in vain but rather inspire us all to work towards a society founded on love and understanding.
As the story of Laura Ann Carleton’s tragic death spreads, it is a call to action for all individuals to evaluate their own beliefs and actions. It’s an opportunity to foster an environment of acceptance and support, not only for the LGBTQ+ community but for all marginalized groups. Together, we can honor Carleton’s memory and ensure that no one else falls victim to such senseless acts of hate.
