Where Is Susan Lorincz Now? Exploring the Aftermath of the 2023 Florida Shooting Featured in The Perfect Neighbor

In 2023, Susan Lorincz, once celebrated as the “perfect neighbor” in her Ocala, Florida, community, became the center of a national controversy after fatally shooting her neighbor, Ajike “AJ” Owens. What appeared to be a routine neighborhood dispute escalated into a tragic event that shocked the local community and drew widespread media attention. The incident has since been examined in the Netflix documentary The Perfect Neighbor, which delves into the heartbreaking details of what led to the shooting and the aftermath.

A Fatal Dispute

Lorincz, 61, had long been involved in neighborhood conflicts, particularly with Owens’ children, whom she had previously accused of disturbing her peace. On June 2, 2023, the tensions came to a head when Lorincz allegedly threw roller skates at Owens’ 10-year-old son, prompting AJ Owens to confront her. What began as a verbal dispute turned deadly when Lorincz, claiming self-defense, shot Owens through a locked front door, killing him instantly.

The shooting, initially framed as an act of self-defense, was met with widespread disbelief, given Lorincz’s previously friendly reputation in the neighborhood. However, a thorough investigation revealed inconsistencies in her account, leading to criminal charges. Lorincz was charged with manslaughter, assault, and culpable negligence, and her actions sparked discussions about Florida’s controversial “stand your ground” law.

Legal Consequences and Public Debate

During her trial in 2024, Lorincz’s claims of self-defense were challenged by bodycam footage and other crucial evidence that contradicted her story. Despite her assertions, the prosecution argued that her actions were excessive and unjustified. The trial, which included testimony from family members, neighbors, and law enforcement, culminated in a conviction for manslaughter with a firearm. Lorincz was sentenced to 25 years in prison, with a projected release date in 2048.

The case stirred national debates, with opinions divided. Some people sympathized with Lorincz, pointing to the ongoing disputes with Owens’ children and her belief that she was acting to protect herself. Others condemned her actions as an unnecessary and avoidable escalation. These discussions were further amplified by the Netflix documentary The Perfect Neighbor, which provided viewers with an in-depth look at the tragic events and their lasting emotional impact on both families.

Where Is Susan Lorincz Now?

As of 2025, Susan Lorincz is serving her sentence at the Homestead Correctional Institution in South Florida. Reports indicate that she has largely remained reclusive since her incarceration and has not publicly expressed any remorse for her actions. The once-admired neighbor is now a symbol of the tragic consequences that can arise from unchecked anger and fear.

Though Lorincz remains far from the community she once called home, the impact of her actions still resonates. The documentary The Perfect Neighbor serves as a poignant reminder of how quickly a trivial argument can turn deadly, and the dangerous consequences of fear and violence.

While Lorincz serves her sentence, the tragic deaths of both Ajike Owens and the breakdown of a neighborhood once full of trust continue to serve as a cautionary tale about the deadly consequences of escalating neighborhood conflicts.