Family of Ajike Owens files wrongful death lawsuit against neighbor convicted in fatal shooting

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OCALA, Fla. — The family of Ajike “AJ” Owens, a mother of four fatally shot in 2023 over a neighbor dispute, filed a wrongful death lawsuit against Susan Lorincz on June 10, according to court documents obtained by News 6 WKMG-TV.

Family of Ajike Owens files civil lawsuit

Lorincz, 59, was convicted of manslaughter with a firearm in August 2024 and sentenced to 25 years in prison. The lawsuit, filed in Marion County Circuit Court, seeks damages for what attorneys call “gross negligence ” and a pattern of aggression that led to Owens’ death.

What happened to Ajike Owens?

On June 2, 2023, Owens was fatally shot after allegedly confronting Lorincz, who had thrown roller skates and an umbrella at Owens’ children as they played outside. According to prosecutors, Owens approached Lorincz’s front door, pounding and shouting in response to the incident. Lorincz then fired a single round through the closed door, striking Owens in the chest.

Stand Your Ground

Lorincz claimed self-defense under Florida’s “Stand Your Ground” law, but jurors rejected that argument. During interrogations and trial testimony, she denied throwing objects and said she feared for her life. However, body camera footage and witness accounts contradicted parts of her story.

The lawsuit was filed by Pamela Dias, Owens’ mother and the personal representative of her estate. Owens’ children are named as beneficiaries. The suit also names Charles Gabbard, the property owner, citing failure to address Lorincz’s repeated complaints and alleged harassment.

According to the documents, the family is seeking $50,000.