Susan Lorincz: Florida Woman Who Fatally Shot Neighbor in 2023
The tragic case of Susan Lorincz has gained renewed attention with the release of the Netflix documentary “The Perfect Neighbor.” This documentary delves into her fatal shooting of Ajike “AJ” Owens, a 35-year-old mother, on June 2, 2023, in Marion County, Florida. The incident has sparked widespread debate regarding “stand your ground” laws, which allow individuals to use lethal force in self-defense when they perceive an imminent threat.
Shooting Incident Details
The conflict escalated when Lorincz confronted Owens’ children, accusing them of playing too near her property. During this confrontation, she allegedly threw a roller skate at Owens’ 10-year-old son. After this encounter, the children reported the incident to their mother, Ajike Owens.
Subsequently, Owens approached Lorincz’s home to resolve the situation. However, when she knocked on the door, Lorincz fired a single shot from a .380-caliber handgun through the locked door, fatally striking Owens in the chest. At the time, Owens’ son stood beside her. Initially, Lorincz claimed self-defense. Her assertion sparked public outrage, particularly when law enforcement stated that the case did not qualify for “stand your ground” protections.
Legal Proceedings and Sentencing
On June 6, 2023, Lorincz was arrested and charged with several offenses, including manslaughter with a firearm and culpable negligence. Neighbors had previously reported her escalating aggressive behavior toward local children, which included verbal harassment and even threats with a weapon.
The trial commenced in August 2024. During the proceedings, the prosecution argued that Owens posed no imminent threat. On August 16, Lorincz was found guilty of manslaughter. The jury’s decision elicited emotional reactions from Owens’ family, who expressed relief at the verdict.
Judge Robert Hodges sentenced Lorincz to 25 years in prison on November 25, 2024, stating that the shooting was “completely unnecessary.” He acknowledged Lorincz’s troubled past but emphasized the significant harm inflicted upon the victims’ family.
Impact on Victim’s Family
The repercussions of Owens’ death have deeply impacted her family, particularly her four young children, who faced the trauma of losing their mother. At sentencing, Owens’ mother spoke of the lasting pain her family endures. Lorincz expressed remorse during the court proceedings, stating she never intended to kill anyone and is profoundly saddened by the loss.
Current Status of Susan Lorincz
Now 61 years old, Lorincz is currently incarcerated at the Homestead Correctional Institution in Miami-Dade County, with a projected release date of April 8, 2048. Conversations regarding the case continue as her actions have left a lasting imprint on the community and especially on Owens’ family, who are focusing on healing in the aftermath of this tragedy.
The family’s attorney noted the focus remains on the children, who are now living with their grandmother and trying to navigate life after such a devastating loss. The sentiment from the victim’s family indicates a desire for continued progress toward healing without further connection to Lorincz.
