Brady Statement on California Store Owner Shot and Killed in Dispute Over Displaying Pride Flag

Clothing Store Owner Laura Ann Carleton was Killed by a Gunman Who Confronted Her About a Pride Flag Outsider Her Business.

Washington, D.C., August 21, 2023 – This weekend, Laura Ann Carleton, a store owner and mother of nine children, was fatally shot in a hate-motivated attack for flying a Pride flag outside of her business. Brady, a national gun violence prevention organization, released the following statement:

Kris Brown, president of Brady, said:

“Laura Ann Carleton was murdered for displaying a symbol of unity and pride. This tragedy has robbed nine children of their mother, a community of an LGBTQ+ ally, and many of their dear friend.

“This senseless act is a devastating reminder that hate-driven violence and harassment are on the rise in our country, and in a nation with more guns than people, hate can quickly turn deadly. Sixty percent of anti-LGBTQ motivated homicides involve a firearm. The rise of hateful extremism only reinforces the dire need for a change in our gun laws. Pride shouldn’t put you in harm's way, but our nation’s weak gun laws tragically make that the case, every single day.

“With a heavy heart for Laura’s family and loved ones, we offer our deepest condolences.”