Authorities in South Florida are investigating the death of Nancy Metayer Bowen as a suspected domestic violence case after the Coral Springs vice mayor was found dead in her home on Wednesday.
Police said officers were dispatched to her residence shortly after 10 a.m. following a welfare check request. According to Coral Springs Police Chief Brad Mock, officers discovered her body inside the house. Her husband, 40-year-old Stephen Bowen, was subsequently taken into custody as part of the investigation.
Nancy Metayer Bowen
The city later confirmed the tragic development in a public statement, saying: “We are heartbroken to share that Vice Mayor Nancy Metayer has died. She was more than a public servant, she was a light in our community. Her leadership was grounded in compassion, strength, and an unwavering commitment to others. Her impact on Coral Springs is immeasurable, and her loss leaves a void in our hearts.”
Metayer Bowen, 38, had built a notable career in public service. First elected in 2020, she made history as the first Black and Haitian American woman to serve as a city commissioner in Coral Springs. She secured re-election in 2024 and was later chosen by fellow commissioners to serve as vice mayor.
Before entering politics, she worked as an environmental scientist and contributed to regional efforts through the Broward County Soil and Water Conservation District, where she played a role in response initiatives during major storms, including Hurricanes Irma, Michael and Dorian.
Colleagues and city officials expressed deep sorrow at her passing. City Commissioner Joshua Simmons described her as both a colleague and “battle buddy,” adding, “She had such a good heart. She truly cared about people.”
City Manager Catherine Givens also reflected on the loss, saying, “To say today is a very dark day for us in Coral Springs is an understatement. There are no words that can truly capture the depth of this loss.”
Coral Springs, home to roughly 133,000 residents in Broward County, lies about 20 miles northwest of Fort Lauderdale. The investigation into the circumstances surrounding her death remains ongoing.
By: Andrews Kwesi Yeboah