AJ’s Story

Ajike “AJ” Owens

Ajike Shantrell Owens was a radiant presence whose smile could light up any room. Affectionately known as “AJ,” she left a lasting impression on everyone she encountered with her warmth, generosity, and infectious spirit

Living in Ocala, Florida, Ajike was a devoted single mother whose world revolved around her four beloved children — Isaac (11), Israel (9), Afrika (6), and Titus (3). She was their biggest cheerleader, serving as Team Mom for football and cheerleading, and instilling in them the values of faith, resilience, and love. 

Ajike was also a leader in her community and in her professional life. She was a manager in the restaurant/hospitality industry, bringing the same dedication to her work that she did to her family. A committed Christian, she believed in raising her children in a nurturing and faith-filled environment.

Her care extended well beyond her household. AJ was a loyal friend who cherished her relationships and gave freely of herself to others. She often supported single mothers who faced struggles similar to her own, always leading with compassion and generosity.

AJ’s life embodied love, faith, and community – values that continue to inspire Standing in the Gap Fund.

Following the Story

What Happened to AJ

2023

• June 2, 2023: The life of Ajike ‘AJ’ Owens, a 35-year-old Black mother of four, is unjustifiably taken by a 58-year-old white woman, Susan Lorincz in Ocala, Florida. 

• June 6, 2023: Susan Lorincz is arrested in Marion County. 

• June 9, 2023: First Bond Hearing. After the June 9th bond hearing, Owens’ attorney, Anthony Thomas, made a formal request to upgrade the charge from manslaughter to second-degree murder. The proposed upgrade would have potentially resulted in a minimum sentence of 25 years in prison for Lorincz, with the possibility of life imprisonment. 

• June 12, 2023: Ajike Shantrell Owens was laid to rest in Ocala, FL. Her funeral was attended by family, friends, and thousands of Florida residents and concerned citizens who were deeply moved by her tragic story. 

• June 26, 2023: Marion County State Attorney Bill Gladson announces the filing of formal charges in the murder case of Ajike ‘AJ’ Owens. The accused, Susan Lorincz, previously faced five counts during the June 9th Bond Hearing. However, Gladson has now officially charged Lorincz with one count of manslaughter with a firearm and one count of assault. Lorincz would face up to 30 years in prison on the charges.  

2024

• June 5, 2024: A pre-trial hearing was held in Ocala, FL, to determine a final court date. Initially scheduled to begin on June 17, the judge ruled that the court proceedings would now be decided on June 17, with the trial expected to start on either July 22 or July 29. Additionally, the defense informed the court of a Motion in Limine to exclude race-related testimony and evidence from the upcoming trial, The state prosecutor agreed, stating that removing this evidence would reduce the chances of an appeal. An evidentiary hearing was set for Friday, June 7, 2024. 

• June 7, 2024: In the case of three Motions of Limine being filed by the Defense, only the First Motion was granted in-part by the judge. AJ’s family and Family Attorney, Anthony Thomas, have no doubt that race was the motivating factor behind Susan Lorincz’s actions. They await their day in court, now scheduled for August 12, 2024 in Ocala, Fl. 

• August 12, 2024: Jury Selection and Trial Expected to Begin.

• August 16, 2024: Lorincz is found unanimously guilty by a jury of her peers after only hours of deliberation.

• November 25, 2024: Lorincz is charged and sentenced to 25 years in prison by Judge Robert W. Hodges.

• Dec 1 – 8, 2024: The official launch of Standing in the Gap Fund is celebrated with an immersive arts exhibition and fundraiser during Art Basel in Miami, Fl.

Get Involved