Paul Feig

A US shop owner was shot dead after a dispute over a Pride flag displayed outside her business, police say.

Laura Ann Carleton, 66, was found with a bullet wound at her Mag Pi shop in Cedar Glen, California, on Friday.

A Suspect - who fled The Scene on foot - was killed by police when found nearby, allegedly still armed.

Ms Carleton was described as a " wonderful friend" by Hollywood Director Paul Feig , who posted an image of them together.

The Suspect made " disparaging remarks" about The Rainbow flag before shooting The Victim , police Said . She was pronounced dead at The Scene .

Officers then located The Suspect , armed with a handgun, the San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner Department Said .

At this point, " a Lethal Force encounter occurred and The Suspect was pronounced deceased".

Feig - known for films such as Bridesmaids as well as the Freaks and Geeks TV Series - Said his friend had been shot after confronting The Suspect for ripping down The Flag .

In, He Said he was " devastated" for Ms Carleton's family and the LGBTQ+ community, " for whom Lauri was such a true ally".

" This intolerance has to end, " he wrote. " Anyone using hateful language against the LGBTQ+ community has to realise their Words Matter , that their words can inspire violence against innocent loving people. "

Local Group Lake Arrowhead LGBT Said The Incident marked a " very sad day" for the area and that Ms Carleton, a " friend and supporter" would be " truly missed".

She was " murdered defending her LGBTQ+ Pride flags in front of her store" The Group wrote in.

" Lauri did not identify as LGBTQ+, but spent her time helping & advocating for everyone in the community. "

Source of news: bbc.com