The family of Ajike Owens, a Marion County woman who was fatally shot by her neighbor in 2023, has called for the maximum sentence for Susan Lorincz. As previously reported by BOSSIP, Lorincz was found guilty of manslaughter in August.
Source: Marion County Sheriff’s Office / Ben Crump
Lorincz is scheduled to be sentenced today, Monday, Nov. 25, at 1:30 p.m.
Owens was shot through Lorincz’s front door, following a confrontation between the two women over an alleged dispute involving Owens’ children. According to WFTV Orlando, Owens had gone to Lorincz’s apartment to discuss an incident in which Lorincz reportedly threw a skate at Owens’ children and yelled racial slurs while they played in a field near Lorincz’s home.
Lorincz claimed self-defense but was charged and later convicted of manslaughter with a weapon. Her guilty verdict marked what Owens’ family called an “important step” toward justice.
Family Calls for Maximum Sentence
Owens’ family emphasized the need for full accountability for Lorincz’s actions in a statement released ahead of the sentencing.
“As we approach the sentencing of Susan Lorincz, our family remains focused on justice for Ajike,” the family said in the statement. “The jury’s guilty verdict of manslaughter with a weapon was an important step, but we now look to the court to follow that decision with the maximum penalty under the law.”
The family also addressed the importance of standing against racial violence in the court’s decision.
“We believe that standing on the right side of history requires holding those who commit racial violence fully accountable for their actions. While no sentence can ever restore the life taken from us, the court’s decision will send a strong message about the value of Ajike’s life and the importance of justice for victims of senseless violence.”
Time, Does It Really Heal?
Pamela Dias, Owens’ mother, expressed the family’s hope for closure.
“Next week is another opportunity for our family to find some closure. While the pain of losing Ajike will never go away, we are hopeful that justice will prevail and that the court will give Susan Lorincz the maximum penalty for her actions,” said Dias to WFTV Orlando.
Dias also reflected on her daughter’s legacy and the support the family has received during this difficult time.
“Ajike’s legacy will live on in her children, and we will continue to fight for justice, love, and peace in her name,” Dias said. “We extend our deepest gratitude to everyone who has stood by Ajike’s family throughout this painful journey. Your support has been a source of strength.”
Life and Legacy: Taken Too Soon
Owens’ family described her as a devoted mother, daughter, sister, and friend who dedicated her life to her children and community.
“Our family continues to grieve this unimaginable loss, and we will never forget her love, her spirit, and her dedication to her children and her community,” the family said in their statement.
Lorincz’s sentencing is set for Monday, with the family and community awaiting the court’s decision.
