‘We are all devastated,’ the Bridesmaids director wrote (Picture: Instagram)
Paul Feig has expressed his sorrow following the death of his friend Laura Ann Carleton, who was killed after hanging a Pride flag outside her shop.
In a report published online, San Bernardino County Sheriff’s coroner department confirmed that Carleton had been shot on Hook Creek Road in Cedar Glen, California.
The incident was described by the department as ‘murder’ with Carleton pronounced dead on the scene, while the suspect – who was armed with a handgun – was ‘prounced deceased’ after being pursued.
‘When deputies attempted to contact the suspect, a lethal force encounter occurred and the suspect was pronounced deceased,’ the statement read.
It added that the investigation into the fatal incident was ongoing, while also stating: ‘Through further investigation, detectives learned the suspect made several disparaging remarks about a rainbow flag that stood outside the store before shooting Carleton.’
In a post shared on Instagram, Bridesmaids director Paul paid tribute to his late friend, describing her as a ‘true ally’ to the LGBT+ community and stressing that ‘intolerance has to end’.
‘Our wonderful friend Lauri Carlton (seen in this picture) was murdered yesterday in her store @magpi_shop in Lake Arrowhead by a 27 year old man who didn’t like that she had a large pride flag hanging outside of her shop,’ he wrote.
‘He ripped it down and when she confronted him about it he shot and killed her.’
The screenwriter continued: ‘We are all devastated for her husband Bort and her family and the LGBTQ+ community, for whom Lauri was such a true ally.
‘Her alleged murderer was later shot and killed by the San Bernardino police and so no longer poses a threat to the community. But this intolerance has to end.’
The 60-year-old concluded: ‘Anyone using hateful language against the LGBTQ+ community has to realize their words matter, that their words can inspire violence against innocent loving people.
The producer received messages of condolence over his loss (Picture: Dominik Bindl/Getty Images)
‘Let’s all keep moving forward with tolerance and love. Let’s not let Lauri’s tragic death be in vain.’
Several celebrities expressed their condolences to Feig over his loss, including actor Charlie Theron, who wrote: ‘Heartbreaking 💔.’
One Tree Hill star Sophia Bush added: ‘Truly heartbreaking,’ while Feig’s wife Laurie Feig commented: ‘Beautiful person. Beautiful photo. Tragic loss. Hate leads to violence. I pray daily for more love and less hate. 😢.’
San Bernardino County Sheriff’s coroner department concluded its report by stating: ‘This investigation is ongoing, and no further details are being released. Anyone with information regarding this incident is urged to contact the Homicide Detail at 909-890-4904.
‘Callers wishing to remain anonymous should contact the We-Tip Hotline at 1-800-78-CRIME (27463) or got to http://www.wetip.com.’
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‘We are all devastated,’ the Bridesmaids director wrote.