In Florida, a 60-year-old woman named Susan Lorincz is facing sentencing after being convicted of manslaughter in the tragic death of her neighbor, Ajike “A.J.” Owens, a 35-year-old mother of four. The incident, which took place in June 2023, stemmed from an ongoing feud between the two over Owens’ children playing near both of their homes in Ocala, a city roughly 80 miles northwest of Orlando.
The conflict reached its heartbreaking peak when Lorincz fired a shot through her front door, killing Owens. According to court testimony, the shooting happened after Owens went to Lorincz’s home, furious over claims that Lorincz had thrown objects, like roller skates and an umbrella, at her kids. Lorincz denied the accusations. Witnesses said Owens was banging on the door and yelling, but Lorincz insisted she felt threatened and claimed she acted in self-defense.
In a recorded interview with detectives, Lorincz said she believed her life was in danger. She also described feeling harassed by her neighbors for most of the three years she lived in the area. “I thought I was in imminent danger,” she told them.
Despite her claims, an all-white jury didn’t buy her self-defense argument and found her guilty. Now, Lorincz faces up to 30 years in prison since she used a gun in the crime. Owens’ family, still reeling from their loss, is pushing for the maximum penalty. “We’ve lost A.J. forever,” said Owens’ mother, Pamela Dias. “Her children will grow up without their mom. We’re praying for justice.”
On the other side, Lorincz’s defense team is asking for a lighter sentence. Her lawyer, Amanda Sizemore, argued that Lorincz’s mental health issues, combined with the pressure of the situation, should be taken into account. They’re hoping the court will consider a prison term lower than the state’s minimum guideline of 11.5 years.
The case has sparked outrage in the local Black community, especially since it took prosecutors weeks to file charges against Lorincz. Some felt the manslaughter charge wasn’t strong enough, as second-degree murder—which carries a potential life sentence—was an option. Protests erupted in Ocala, where about 12% of the population is Black, according to census data.
Now, as the sentencing looms, all eyes are on the courtroom. Owens’ family and supporters are calling for justice, determined to honor her memory and ensure her death isn’t in vain. For many, this case is more than just a legal battle—it’s a symbol of the long fight for equality and fairness in the justice system.
