A Florida jury is currently hearing evidence in the manslaughter trial of Susan Lorincz, a 60-year-old White woman accused of fatally shooting an unarmed Black mother during a neighborhood dispute. The incident occurred last June when Lorincz fired through her front door, killing 35-year-old Ajike “AJ” Owens.
Lorincz is facing charges of manslaughter with a firearm and assault, pleading not guilty to the accusations. If convicted, she could potentially face up to 30 years in prison. The jury listened to testimony from Marion County Sheriff’s Detective Ryan Stith, the lead investigator in the case.
During the trial, a letter reportedly written by Lorincz to Owens’ children was read in court, expressing remorse and fear for her own safety during the encounter. Owens’ mother, Pamala Dias, shared her emotional struggle with reporters outside the courthouse, highlighting the pain and anguish of facing the woman responsible for her daughter’s death.
Owens’ children are expected to testify in the trial, with Dias emphasizing their eagerness for justice to be served. Lorincz remained composed as prosecutors presented video footage of her police interrogations following the shooting.
In the video, Lorincz recounted a history of disputes with Owens over neighborhood noise and children playing near her home. She claimed that on the night of the shooting, Owens threatened her life, leading her to fear for her safety and ultimately shoot in self-defense.
Investigators noted the absence of significant damage to Lorincz’s door frame, raising questions about the necessity of using lethal force. The trial also delved into Lorincz’s awareness of Florida’s self-defense laws, particularly the “Stand Your Ground” statute, which allows individuals to respond with force if they perceive a threat of serious harm.
Defense attorney Morris Carranza argued that Lorincz acted out of genuine fear for her life, believing she had no alternative but to use deadly force. The trial continues as the jury deliberates on the complex legal and moral implications of the case.
