Lorincz was arrested earlier this month, and on Monday, she was formally charged with manslaughter with a firearm and assault.
A manslaughter charge has been filed against a white woman, Susan Lorincz, accused of shooting and killing a Black mother in front of her 9-year-old son in Ocala, Florida
The decision not to pursue a second-degree murder charge was made due to a lack of evidence indicating that Lorincz harbored “hatred, spite, ill will or evil intent” towards the victim, Ajike Owens, according to State Attorney William Gladson.
Although the prosecutor’s office acknowledged the family’s and community’s desire for a second-degree murder charge, Gladson emphasized his commitment to following the law in each case. If convicted of manslaughter, Lorincz could face up to 30 years in prison. The public defender’s office, representing Lorincz, declined to comment on the case at this time.
The decision not to charge Lorincz with second-degree murder has disappointed Owens’ family, whose attorney, Anthony Thomas, expressed the belief that true justice demanded a more severe charge. Thomas stated that the prosecutor’s choice undermined their pursuit of real accountability for Lorincz’s reckless behavior.
The incident occurred on June 2 in Ocala, located approximately 83 miles north of Orlando
Lorincz informed investigators that she had been facing ongoing disrespect from children in the neighborhood, including Owens’ children. On the day of the shooting, Lorincz claimed to have a headache, and she became agitated by the noise created by children playing outside her apartment. After throwing roller skates at them, Lorincz alleged that Owens knocked on her door, threatened her life, and banged on the door forcefully. In response, Lorincz fired a single shot through the closed door, fatally hitting Owens.
Lorincz has been granted a $154,000 bond by a judge but is required to wear an ankle monitor and stay away from Owens’ family as part of the conditions.