In a case that has drawn national attention, Susan Louise Lorincz, a 60-year-old white woman, was found guilty of manslaughter in the fatal shooting of her Black neighbor, Ajike “AJ” Owens, in Ocala, Florida. The shooting, which took place on June 2, 2023, followed a long-standing feud between Lorincz and Owens, centered around Owens’ children playing near Lorincz’s home.
Lorincz, who had a history of harassing neighborhood children and using racial slurs, shot Owens through her apartment door, claiming she feared for her life. The fatal incident occurred after Owens confronted Lorincz, who had allegedly thrown skates and an umbrella at Owens’ children. Owens was unarmed, and the door to Lorincz’s apartment was locked at the time of the shooting.
During the trial, Lorincz maintained that she acted in self-defense, asserting that she was in “mortal danger” and had no intention to kill. Her defense leaned heavily on Florida’s controversial “stand your ground” law, which permits the use of deadly force if a person believes their life is in imminent danger. However, the all-white, six-person jury did not accept this defense, finding Lorincz guilty of manslaughter—a charge that could see her face up to 30 years in prison.
The verdict was met with an emotional response from Owens’ family. Pamela Dias, Owens’ mother, who had endured a long and painful trial, expressed a sense of relief and partial closure. “My heart is a little lighter, and we’re now on the path of true healing,” Dias said at a press conference following the verdict. However, she also emphasized that justice would only be fully served with Lorincz’s sentencing, which is the next step in this legal journey.
The trial highlighted the complex and often controversial application of “stand your ground” laws. Anthony D. Thomas, the family’s attorney, argued that the case represented a critical moment in defining the limits of these laws. “No, you cannot claim to be in fear of your life,” Thomas stated, challenging Lorincz’s defense.
The case also drew attention to Lorincz’s troubling behavior within the community. Neighbors recalled numerous incidents where she harassed children, using racial slurs and intimidation tactics. Phyllis Wills, a long-time resident, described Lorincz as a disruptive force who seemed to take pleasure in provoking the children. “She set out to cause harm. She set out to kill. That’s exactly what she did,” said Dias, reflecting the community’s anger and pain.
Lorincz’s conviction is a step toward justice for Owens’ family, but the case remains a sobering reminder of the tensions and violence that can arise from deep-seated prejudice and fear.
