Susan Lorincz, a 58-year-old Florida resident, has been formally charged with manslaughter and assault in the death of her neighbor, Ajike Owens, a 34-year-old mother of four. The incident occurred on June 2nd in Ocala, Florida, when Lorincz allegedly shot Owens through her closed front door while Owens' 9-year-old son stood beside her.
State Attorney William Gladson described Lorincz's actions as "deplorable" and acknowledged that his office considered a second-degree murder charge. However, prosecutors determined there wasn't sufficient evidence to prove Lorincz acted with "hatred, spite, ill will or evil intent" towards Owens. This decision disappointed Owens' family, who were advocating for a murder charge. Their attorney, Anthony Thomas, expressed his belief that the charges don't adequately reflect the severity of Lorincz's actions.
The shooting stemmed from an ongoing dispute between Lorincz and Owens' children, who were playing near Lorincz's home. Lorincz allegedly threw a pair of roller skates at the children, striking one of them on the foot. Owens subsequently knocked on Lorincz's door, and Lorincz fired a single shot through the door, fatally wounding Owens.
A patched bullet hole, upper right, is seen on a door on June 6 where Owens was shot and killed the week before.
A protester, holds a poster of Ajike Owens at the Marion County Courthouse on June 6 in Ocala.
Lorincz claimed self-defense under Florida's "Stand Your Ground" law, alleging Owens threatened her and banged forcefully on the door. However, investigators concluded the law did not apply. Lorincz has been released on bond with conditions, including an ankle monitor and staying away from Owens' family. She faces up to 30 years in prison if convicted.
