Susan Lorincz Found Guilty in Fatal Shooting of Neighbor Ajike Owens

In a significant ruling on Friday, Susan Lorincz, the woman from Florida who shot her neighbor Ajike “AJ” Owens through a locked door in June 2023, was found guilty of first-degree felony manslaughter. The verdict comes with a potential sentence of up to 30 years in prison.

The trial began with a six-person jury, which started deliberations shortly after noon ET on Friday, following the closing arguments presented by both the prosecution and the defense. The case drew widespread attention, highlighting issues related to race, self-defense, and gun violence.

The incident occurred on June 2, 2023, when Lorincz shot Owens, a Black mother of four, as Owens attempted to discuss complaints about her children playing near Lorincz’s property. This confrontation took place in front of Owens’ 10-year-old son, who was present during the tragic incident.

Following her arrest on June 6, Lorincz pleaded not guilty to the charge of first-degree felony manslaughter. She was held on a bond of $150,000 as the details of the case unfolded.

After the jury was seated, Anthony Thomas, the attorney for Owens’ family, expressed disappointment regarding the composition of the jury, which was exclusively white. “We would have wanted the jury to be more diverse,” Thomas stated. Ben Crump, another attorney representing the family, emphasized the need for justice and expressed hope that the jury would deliver a fair deliberation despite its lack of diversity.

As the trial progressed, various witnesses provided testimony, including neighbors, law enforcement officials, and crime scene analysts. Prosecutors argued forcefully that Lorincz acted unlawfully when she shot Owens, an unarmed woman, through a door that was locked at the time. Rich Buxman, the state attorney, insisted that there was no immediate danger that justified deadly force.

In defense, Lorincz’s attorney argued that Lorincz had legitimate fears for her safety. “If you have reasonable doubt, you should find Ms. Lorincz not guilty,” her attorney stated, invoking the legal standard of doubt required for conviction.

A central point in the prosecution’s case focused on a 911 call made by Lorincz shortly before the shooting, during which she reported alleged trespassing by children on her property. This call raised questions about her mindset and the legitimacy of her fears.

Following the verdict, Pamela Dias, the mother of Ajike Owens, released a statement committing herself to seek justice not only for her daughter but also for other families who have faced similar losses. “This trial has been an incredibly difficult journey, but I believe in the power of truth and justice,” she stated.

During the trial, much discussion revolved around the locking mechanism of Lorincz’s front door and the events leading to the shooting. The defense claimed that Owens threatened Lorincz and attempted to break down the door, which they argued justified Lorincz’s actions.

However, witnesses, including former neighbors and sheriff’s deputies, countered this narrative. A former landlord testified that Lorincz’s door was in good condition and had secure locks, challenging the portrayal of an imminent threat.

As testimony continued, the prosecution highlighted the contrast between the locked door and the supposed threats made by Owens, suggesting that Lorincz’s perception of danger was unfounded. Gabbard, the landlord, testified about the repairs made to the door, confirming that it was structurally sound.

As the trial concluded, many continued to reflect on the broader implications of the case, particularly as it relates to race and gun violence in America. The outcome of the trial remains a focal point for ongoing discussions about justice and accountability within communities.