A Florida court has sentenced Susan Lorincz to 25 years in prison for the fatal shooting of her Nigerian neighbor, Ajike “AJ” Owens, during a heated confrontation in Ocala, Florida.
The tragic incident occurred in June 2023 when Owens, a 35-year-old mother of four, knocked on Lorincz’s door unarmed after a dispute involving neighborhood children. Lorincz fired a single shot through her closed door, fatally wounding Owens. The altercation stemmed from Lorincz’s complaints about children, including Owens’ kids, playing near her property and leaving toys in her yard.
According to court records, Lorincz told police that Owens had shouted threats and banged on her door, prompting her to retrieve a handgun. However, Judge Robert Hodges emphasized during sentencing that Lorincz had called 911, and law enforcement was en route when the shooting occurred.
"The shooting was completely unnecessary in this case," the judge stated. He highlighted that Lorincz was behind a locked door and could have retreated further into her home instead of using deadly force.
Neighbors also testified that Lorincz had a history of hostile behavior toward local children and had allegedly used racial slurs, claims she denied.
Owens’ family, devastated by her loss, urged the court to impose the maximum sentence of 30 years. Her mother, Pamela Dias, delivered a heart-wrenching statement during the sentencing:
"Our pain and suffering didn’t end when Susan was found guilty of manslaughter. Our pain and suffering won’t end with today’s sentencing. Our pain and suffering will last a lifetime."
