(Marion County, FL) Today, 59-year-old Susan Louise Lorincz was found guilty in the case involving the death of her neighbor, 35-year-old Ajike “AJ” Owens. Jurors found Lorincz guilty of Manslaughter by Use of a Firearm after hearing the evidence and facts of the case presented during the trial.

“This case is undoubtedly a tragic reminder of the devastating consequences of gun violence.  The defendant’s choices have left four young children without their mother, a loss that will be felt for the rest of their lives,” said Bill Gladson, Fifth Judicial Circuit State Attorney. “While today’s verdict can’t bring AJ back, we hope it brings some measure of justice and peace to her family and friends.”

The crime occurred on June 2, 2023, at an apartment complex in the Quail Run community. Marion County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) deputies initially responded to a call for service in reference to juveniles trespassing on private property.

While officials were in route, the MCSO Communications Center received another call advising shots had been fired. Deputies arrived on scene minutes later and located Ajike in the yard in front of Lorincz’s apartment. Ajike was observed to have a gunshot wound to the right side of her upper chest. First responders rendered aid to Ajike while another deputy contacted Lorincz inside her home and took her into custody.

During the weeklong trial, over 30 witnesses were called by both the state and the defense and today the jury found the defendant guilty of manslaughter with a firearm, a first-degree felony that could result in a 30-year prison sentence. 

This case was successfully prosecuted by Assistant State Attorneys Richard Buxman and Adam Smith.

Published on 08/16/2024.