A Florida woman, Susan Lorincz, has been arrested and booked into the Marion County Jail on several charges, including manslaughter with a firearm, culpable negligence, battery, and assault. The arrest follows an incident on June 2, 2023, where Lorincz allegedly shot and killed her neighbor, Ajike “AJ” Owens, during a confrontation regarding allegations of Lorincz throwing a rollerblade skate at one of Owens’ children earlier in the day.
According to the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, Lorincz fired a single shot through her closed front door, striking Owens in the chest, resulting in her death at the hospital. Lorincz’s son was present during the shooting, leading to the recommendation of a culpable negligence charge. Protests have since erupted, with people demanding justice for Owens.
Sheriff Billy Woods emphasized that the shooting does not fall under Florida’s “Stand Your Ground” law, as Lorincz’s life was not reasonably perceived to be in imminent danger. He called the shooting unjustified and clarified that an arrest was made after a thorough investigation ruling out self-defense.
Prior to the shooting, Lorincz had been involved in ongoing disputes with Owens and her children. Records indicate multiple 911 calls over the years, including instances of Lorincz complaining about Owens’ dog on her property and Owens allegedly opening her mailbox. The investigation revealed Lorincz’s growing anger towards the children playing near her home.
Representatives for the Owens family expressed relief over the arrest but also raised concerns about the delayed accountability due to laws like “Stand Your Ground.” Attorneys Ben Crump and Anthony D. Thomas, hired by the Owens family, have scheduled a press conference to address the case.
The decision on formal charges against Lorincz will be made by the State Attorney’s Office. The case highlights ongoing tensions and the need for justice in the tragic killing of Ajike “AJ” Owens.
