Ocala, Florida — A new documentary sheds light on the tragic death of Ajike “AJ” Shantrell Owens, who was fatally shot by her neighbor, Susan Lorincz, in June 2023. Titled The Perfect Neighbor, the film mainly utilizes police body camera and security footage to recount the events surrounding this harrowing incident, presenting a raw glimpse into a community affected by violence.
The film captures the escalating conflicts between Owens and Lorincz, highlighting the circumstances that culminated in the shooting. In an outcome that shocked many, Lorincz was convicted of manslaughter in August 2024 and later sentenced to 25 years in prison. The documentary’s gripping visuals portray both the unfolding events and the devastation left behind.
Filmmaker Geeta Gandbhir expressed her sorrow over the impact of the tragedy on Owens’ family and community. “This shocking crime left my family and me engulfed in grief and confusion,” she said, emphasizing the deep bonds within the community. Despite the film’s emotional depth, it leaves out significant details about Owens’ life, including her roles as a mother, employee, and community member.
Owens was a devoted parent to four children and worked at a local McDonald’s. Community members described her as an engaged and caring figure, often spending time outdoors with the neighborhood kids. Her neighbor, Phyllis Wills, recalled how Owens went out of her way to support local children, including encouraging her son to join a football team.
The documentary also raises questions about the authenticity of the footage used, which was primarily obtained through the Freedom of Information Act. Owens’ mother, Pamela Dias, sought this information to ensure the public could trust the visual evidence presented. This move aims to empower communities that often feel targeted by law enforcement.
In the aftermath of the shooting, Owens’ family pursued a wrongful death lawsuit against Lorincz and the property owner, seeking at least $50,000 in damages. Dias has shared the profound grief and despair she has experienced since the loss of her daughter, highlighting the emotional toll this journey has taken on her family.
To honor Owens, the Standing in the Gap Fund was established by her family and friends, aiming to support others impacted by similar tragedies and advocate for changes in legislation, particularly concerning Florida’s controversial Stand Your Ground law. Dias has publicly criticized this law as a tool that disproportionately affects people of color, arguing it fails to protect those who are wronged.
As the case continues to unfold and the community grapples with its loss, The Perfect Neighbor serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities surrounding issues of race, violence, and justice in American society. The film not only recounts the tragic events but also strives to energize conversations about community safety and the legislative measures that impact daily lives.