The engrossing new Netflix documentary, “The Perfect Neighbor”, delves into the tragic death of Ajike “AJ” Shantrell Owens, shedding light on the events leading up to her fatal shooting by her neighbour, Susan Lorincz, on June 2, 2023. The intense narrative is primarily constructed from police body camera and security footage, offering viewers unparalleled access to the escalating incidents that culminated in Owens’ untimely demise. Following a conviction of manslaughter in August 2024, Lorincz was sentenced to 25 years in prison in November 2024, adding a layer of complexity to a story rooted in communal trust and support.
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However, amidst the gripping content presented in the documentary, there are notable details about Owens and Lorincz that were omitted from the narrative. Owens, a dedicated mother of four children, was described as a hardworking manager at a local McDonald’s in Florida. Beyond her professional life, she was revered in her neighbourhood for her commitment to her children, often engaging in outdoor activities like football with them and other youngsters in the community. The documentary, focused on Owens’ death, did not delve into the intricate aspects of her life that defined her beyond the tragic event.
One remarkable fact omitted from the documentary is how the footage was acquired. A significant portion of the material used in the film, including police body camera recordings, security camera footage, and audio from phone calls made by Lorincz, was procured through the Freedom of Information Act. This legal tool enabled Owens’ mother, Pamela Dias, to access a reservoir of vital evidence that painted a vivid picture of the events leading up to the fatal encounter between Owens and Lorincz. The decision to utilise this footage was motivated by a desire for transparency and authenticity in recounting the harrowing narrative.
The aftermath of Owens’ death saw her family pursuing justice through legal avenues. In July 2025, a wrongful death lawsuit was filed against Lorincz and the landlord of the property where the incident occurred in Marion County, Florida. Seeking damages exceeding $50,000, Owens’ family embarked on a challenging journey towards closure and accountability. Dias, reflecting on the turbulent two years following her daughter’s demise, expressed a profound sense of grief and despair that underscored the enduring impact of the tragedy on her family.
In a poignant tribute to Owens, a fund titled Standing in the Gap was established in November 2024 by Dias and Owens’ friend, Takema Robinson. The fund aims to support families grappling with loss and navigating the aftermath of similar tragedies, with a fundraising goal of over $3.5 million by 2030. Additionally, the initiative seeks to advocate for the repeal of Florida’s Stand Your Ground law, a contentious legal framework invoked in Lorincz’s defence. Dias highlighted the discriminatory impact of such laws on communities of colour, emphasising the urgent need for reform to prevent unjustifiable violence and loss of life.
The narrative surrounding AJ Owens’ tragic murder encapsulates a community shattered by an unforeseen act of violence, illuminating the profound impact of the events on her loved ones and the broader societal discourse on justice and accountability. As viewers engage with the raw emotions and complexities unveiled in “The Perfect Neighbor”, the revelations of omitted details serve as poignant reminders of the multifaceted nature of human stories, inviting reflection on the nuances that shape our understanding of tragedy and resilience.