The numbers
The documentary The Perfect Neighbor has garnered significant attention, particularly after being nominated for Best Documentary at the 98th annual Academy Awards in 2026. This film delves into the tragic events surrounding the shooting of Ajike “AJ” Owens, a 35-year-old mother of four, who was fatally shot by her neighbor, Susan Lorincz, through a locked front door on June 2, 2023.
Susan Lorincz, now 58 years old, was convicted of manslaughter with a firearm in August 2024 and subsequently sentenced to 25 years in prison in November 2024. The documentary provides a detailed timeline of the ongoing feud between the two neighbors, featuring interviews, 911 calls, and deputy bodycam footage that illustrate the escalating tensions that led to the fatal incident.
Prior to the shooting, law enforcement had responded to the neighborhood conflict at least ten times, highlighting the ongoing issues between Owens and Lorincz. The film emphasizes the broader implications of Florida’s Stand Your Ground laws, which allow individuals to use deadly force if they believe they are in imminent danger. This legal framework has been a point of contention, as underscored by Sheriff Billy Woods, who stated, “I may not like them. I may not agree with them, but however those laws I will follow.”
The documentary has resonated with audiences, achieving the top spot on Netflix’s Top 10 Movies in the U.S. in October 2025. It not only recounts the tragic events but also raises critical questions about community safety, legal justice, and the societal impacts of such laws. As the film’s producers noted, “The Perfect Neighbor is about fear, prejudice and Stand Your Ground laws,” encapsulating the complex dynamics at play.
Ajike Owens was remembered by her family as someone who had an “infectious personality” and a smile that could light up a room. Her untimely death has left a profound impact on those who knew her, and the documentary seeks to honor her memory while also scrutinizing the circumstances that led to her death. Family members expressed their sorrow, stating that her presence affected everyone she came into contact with.
As of now, Lorincz is serving her sentence at the Homestead Correctional Institution in Miami-Dade County, Florida, with a scheduled release date set for April 8, 2048. The documentary’s exploration of the case has sparked conversations about the effectiveness and consequences of self-defense laws in the state, particularly in light of the tragic outcome.
While the documentary has shed light on the events leading up to the shooting, details remain unconfirmed regarding the broader implications for community relations and legal reforms in Florida. Observers are keenly watching how this case and its portrayal in media will influence future discussions about neighborhood safety and the legal standards surrounding self-defense.
