An outpouring of shock and sadness followed news this week of Coral Springs Vice Mayor Nancy Metayer Bowen’s killing, allegedly at the hands of her husband, who now faces a first-degree murder charge.

Elected officials and public figures at all levels of government expressed sorrow and condolences, with many sharing personal stories and sentiments about how Metayer Bowen touched their lives.

More stories are sure to follow Friday evening, when a candlelight vigil will be held in her honor at Coral Springs City Hall.

Gov. Ron DeSantis said he and First Lady Casey DeSantis were “shocked and saddened” by the “terrible news” of Metayer Bowen’s killing.

“We send our condolences to Nancy’s friends and family.”

Democratic U.S. Rep. Jared Moskowitz, who represents Coral Springs, expressed similar dismay. He shared that Metayer Bowen was on the verge of announcing a bid for Congress.

“I was just with her on Saturday. She just buried her brother,” he wrote on X, referring to the December suicide of Metayer Bowen’s 26-year-old brother, Joshua, who was a survivor of the Feb. 14, 2018, mass shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School (MSD), Moskowitz’s alma mater.

Coral Springs Democratic Rep. Dan Daley, also an MSD alum and friend of Metayer Bowen’s, said he was “deeply saddened” by her passing.

“Nancy was someone who truly cared about people and about this community. She did not just hold office. She showed up, she listened, and she worked every day to move Coral Springs forward. Her commitment to public service and her belief in the future of our community were clear in everything she did,” he wrote.

“Anyone who spent even a few minutes with Nancy remembers her smile and enthusiasm for public service. It lit up a room and made you feel like you mattered. That is a rare quality, and it is something our community was better for. This is a tremendous loss for Coral Springs. My thoughts and prayers are with her family, her loved ones, and everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.”

In a lengthy statement, North Miami Democratic Rep. Dotie Joseph described Metayer Bowen as “a brilliant, compassionate, and fierce young leader whose untimely death has sent shockwaves throughout Florida’s Democratic family, the entire Haitian Diaspora, and all who have ever been impacted by domestic violence, gun violence, or femicide worldwide.”

“Our South Florida community lost a valiant woman who lived a life of service, as she broke barrier after barrier,” she said.

“As we seek justice for Nancy, we must also confront the quiet crisis of gender-based violence. Nancy’s death was not an isolated incident — it sits within a devastating and growing global pattern.”

Joseph noted that approximately 137 women and girls are killed every day by intimate partners or family members — one every 10 minutes — and in the U.S., more than 70 women are shot and killed by an intimate partner every month.

Metayer Bowen’s sister, writing on behalf of her family, wrote in a Wednesday post on Metayer Bowen’s Facebook page that they were “deeply saddened” by the tragedy.

“She was not only a cherished member of our family, but also a dedicated public servant who committed her life to improving the lives of others. Throughout her years in public office, she led with integrity, compassion, and an unwavering sense of purpose. She believed in bringing people together, listening to those she served, and working tirelessly to create positive change in her community. To us, she was a source of strength, wisdom, and love — someone who always put others before herself,” the post said.

“While many knew her as a leader and advocate, we knew her as a sister, a daughter, and a friend whose warmth and laughter filled every room. Her legacy will live on not only in the policies she helped shape but in the countless lives she touched. We are grateful for the outpouring of support and kindness during this difficult time. As we mourn her loss, we also celebrate her remarkable life and the lasting impact she leaves behind.”

The family asked for privacy while its members grieved and thanked “everyone for keeping us in your thoughts and prayers.”

Many more expressed sadness upon hearing of Metayer Bowen’s death, including numerous Florida political leaders and figures. They included:

Federal officials

— U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds: “Heartbroken to learn of the tragic loss of Vice Mayor Nancy Metayer Bowen. Praying for her family, loved ones, and the Coral Springs community during this devastating time. May justice be swift, and may her memory be a blessing.”

— U.S. Rep. Maxwell Frost: “Deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Coral Springs Vice Mayor Nancy Metayer Bowen. She was a tireless advocate, a dedicated progressive leader, and a powerful voice for her community. Her commitment to public service and her passion for lifting others up left a lasting impact on Coral Springs and beyond. This is a truly heartbreaking loss, and she will be remembered for the compassion, strength, and purpose she brought to everything she did. Black women are often the targets of gun violence.”

 — U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz: “I’m overcome by the devastating loss of Vice Mayor (Nancy Metayer Bowen). Nancy was a visionary and motivated young leader whose focus, drive and determination were unmatched. She had so much promise, and I was so fortunate to have known and mentored her. My deepest condolences go out to her parents and family, to the Coral Springs community and her beloved Haitian American community, who loved her back. May her memory be for the blessing that she was to so many.”

— U.S. Rep. Frederica Wilson: “I am deeply saddened by the tragic loss of Vice Mayor Nancy Metayer Bowen. A trailblazer and proud Haitian American, she made history and dedicated her life to public service. Her leadership and commitment to her community left a lasting impact and will not be forgotten. My prayers are with her family and the Coral Springs community. We must honor her legacy by continuing the fight for justice, safety, and equity.”

State officials

Lt. Gov. Jay Collins: “Layla and I are devastated to hear that Coral Springs Vice Mayor Nancy Metayer Bowen was killed today. We offer our sincerest condolences to Vice Mayor Bowen’s family and are praying for them and their community tonight. Thank you to the members of law enforcement who responded to this tragedy.”

House Democratic Leader Fentrice Driskell: “It is with a broken heart and profound grief that the Florida Democratic Party mourns the sudden and horrific death of our beloved Vice Chair, Nancy Metayer Bowen. Just days ago, I spoke with Nancy. Just two weeks ago, I held her in a hug at our Party’s Leadership Summit, never imagining it would be one of our last moments together. Nancy was not simply our Vice Chair of Haitian Outreach. She was a scientist. An environmentalist. A brilliant barrier-breaker who made history as the first Black and Haitian American woman elected to the Coral Springs City Commission. A Vice Mayor who showed up every single day for the people she served. She loved her community deeply and believed, with every fiber of her being, that a better and more equitable future was possible for all of us.

Above all, Nancy was my friend and a friend to everyone who has ever believed that democracy was worth fighting for. The world is less bright without her in it. Her memory will forever be a blessing to me, to our party, and to every person whose life she touched. My heart, my prayers, and the full love of the Florida Democratic Party are with her family and the people of Coral Springs as they face this unimaginable, devastating loss.”

— Sen. Jim Boyd: “The news of Coral Springs Vice Mayor Nancy Metayer Brown is deeply saddening. No doubt this heartbreaking tragedy will be felt deeply by the communities she so faithfully and selflessly served. Her family, friends and all of Broward are in my prayers as they mourn the loss of their fearless leader.”

— Sen. Shevrin Jones: “I am deeply heartbroken by this news. The Coral Springs community — and all of Broward County — has lost a true champion. Nancy was not only a trailblazer but an incredible friend who showed up for people each and every day. The world is darker this evening without her light in it.”

— Sen. Rosalind Osgood: “I am shocked to be grieving the death of Nancy Metayer Bowen today. She was a model of public service and a tireless advocate for the people of Broward County and the Haitian American community. I get up every day and go to work so that young women don’t have to die like this anymore. You never know what the people around you are going through. My prayers will be with her family and friends and with our community as we process this senseless tragedy.”

— Sen. Tina Scott Polsky: “This is so devastating. Nancy was an incredible public servant and a friend. I will miss her dearly. May you rest in peace, Nancy. Sending my deepest condolences to her family, who have suffered too much tragedy.”

— Sen. Carlos Guillermo Smith: “I’m heartbroken to hear the news of this horrible, unthinkable tragedy. Vice Mayor @NMetayerBowen was an incredible leader and shining bright light for her city. We offer our deepest condolences to her family, her friends + her community who loved her. This is devastating.”

— Rep. Kevin Chambliss: “I have no words … My God …”

— Rep. Lindsay Cross: “Devastated by the tragic loss of Nancy Metayer, Vice Mayor of Coral Springs. An environmental scientist, public servant and true champion for her community. Praying for strength & grace for all who loved her & that her legacy of service will live on through the lives she touched.”

— Rep. Anna Eskamani: “Nancy and I worked side by side in the reproductive rights movement for years, and I’ve been honored to call her not just a colleague, but a dear friend. She was brilliant, compassionate, and deeply committed to justice. I’m heartbroken by this loss.”

— Rep. Angie Nixon: “I am in total shock and absolutely devastated to hear that we have lost Nancy, who was my friend, colleague, and sister in the movement. She was a kind and caring person and a true leader in her community. This is an immense loss for all of us, and the world is darker without her. I am keeping Nancy’s family in my thoughts and prayers.”

Florida Democratic Party Chair Nikki Fried: “Nancy was not simply our Vice Chair of Haitian Outreach. She was a scientist. An environmentalist. A brilliant barrier-breaker who made history as the first Black and Haitian American woman elected to the Coral Springs City Commission. A Vice Mayor who showed up every single day for the people she served. She loved her community deeply and believed, with every fiber of her being, that a better and more equitable future was possible for all of us,” Fried said in a statement. “Above all, Nancy was my friend and a friend to everyone who has ever believed that democracy was worth fighting for. The world is less bright without her in it. Her memory will forever be a blessing to me, to our party, and to every person whose life she touched. My heart, my prayers, and the full love of the Florida Democratic Party are with her family and the people of Coral Springs as they face this unimaginable, devastating loss.”

— Rep. Mitch Rosenwald: “Nancy was a guiding light for her constituents. She led with vision and advocacy. We will miss her.”

Local officials

— Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava: “I am heartbroken by the death of Coral Springs Vice Mayor Nancy Metayer Bowen. Nancy was a beloved and brilliant member of our team and a dear friend for many years. Her voice, her presence, and the way she showed up for people will stay with me. She brought conviction, clarity, and heart into every room, and pushed all of us to be better. As the first Black and Haitian American woman elected to the Coral Springs City Commission, she carried that responsibility with purpose. She cared deeply about our environment and about equity, and used her voice without hesitation. As Vice Mayor, she never lost sight of the people she was fighting for. I will miss her deeply. My heart is with her family and everyone who loved her.”

— Miami-Dade County Commissioner Marleine Bastien: “I am saddened, and my heart is broken by the senseless and tragic murder of City of Coral Springs Vice Mayor Nancy Metayer Bowen. Vice Mayor Metayer Bowen was a dedicated leader in her community, across Broward County, and throughout Florida. She was a trailblazer, a climate organizer, a passionate public servant, and a powerful voice for those she represented. We collaborated for several years as community organizers and advocates before she got elected to the Coral Springs Commission. Her commitment to service and her impact on the lives of so many will not be forgotten. This young leader’s light was extinguished far too soon, but her legacy and the many lives she touched will continue to live on. My thoughts and prayers are with her family, colleagues, residents, and friends during this unimaginable time. Rest in Peace and Power, Nancy!”

— Miami-Dade County Commissioner Danielle Cohen Higgins: “A light has been taken in the most tragic of ways. A rising public servant gone way too soon. My heart breaks. May her beautiful soul and spirit rest in peace. I pray for her family and pray for swift justice.”

— St. Petersburg City Council member Corey Givens Jr.: “Praying for the family of my beloved friend Vice Mayor @NMetayerBowen.”

— South Miami Mayor Javier Fernández: “This one hits hard. She was a light in a world that often seems overwhelmingly dark. A true believer and individual dedicated to service at her core. Her loss is profound. May she rest in peace.”

— Coral Springs Commissioner Joshua Simmons: “Nancy was our colleague — and I’m speaking on behalf of our entire Commission. (She) was our battle buddy. She had such a good heart. She truly cared about people, even when people were saying some of the most horrible things about her and us. She still cared, rolled up her sleeves, went to every event that she could go to, because she truly cared about people and making sure people had a relationship with their elected officials. … My soul is heavy. My heart is broken. … Our Commission is incomplete. And we know that time is going to move and do its thing. But for us in this City Hall who have been touched or impacted by Vice Mayor Nancy Metayer Bowen, that is … a loss that is going to take a lot of time to deal with.”

— Coral Springs Manager Catherine Givens: “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 or the pain this organization and community are now dealing with as a result of this senseless tragedy. What’s worse is the tremendous grief that her family must endure. And if you knew Nancy, her family was everything. Vice Mayor Mateyer gave so much of herself to our city. She wasn’t just a leader; she was the light in every room that she entered. She was a steady voice in difficult times, a compassionate soul who lifted others up and a friend to so many. Our hearts are truly broken. We know this brings shock and sorrow, and we are taking the necessary steps as city employees to be with those that are affected. … We ask the community to grieve with us. We are one family, one organization, one community, and we come together at these times. Please hold each other close as we mourn. And in closing, I want to say that we’re going to keep her light even in the darkest of days like today. We’re here for one another. We’re here for our community.”

Others

— Former Senate Democratic Leader Lauren Book: “I am heartbroken over the loss of my friend, Nancy Metayer. This time last year, we were walking together in Coral Springs, and it’s hard to believe I won’t be giving her a hug in the next few days. Nancy always showed up for her friends and for her community. As Commissioner and Vice Mayor, she led with grace, stood strong in her convictions, and had a way of making everyone feel seen. We shared a deep commitment to protecting reproductive rights. I will always be grateful for her light and for the time we shared. She was truly special, and she will be deeply missed.”

— Former Broward County Democratic Party Chair Cynthia Busch: “I’m so shocked and saddened! Nancy was a rising star in our party. Her talent and caring was obvious from her first campaign for local office. She was also one of the kindest and most generous people I know. A rare thing in politics.”

— Congressional candidate Phil Ehr: “A life stolen. A family shattered. A community in mourning. Thinking of her loved ones tonight, and of Coral Springs as it processes an unimaginable loss. May there be justice.”

— Congressional candidate Barbie Harden Hall: “Absolutely devastating for her family and her community.”

— Florida Democratic Party First Vice Chair Daniel Henry: “I’m shocked. I’m hurt. I’m devastated. Nancy had a pure heart and was a good person. Florida lost a true leader today, and so many of us lost a friend. May her memory continue to be a blessing.”

— Gun control advocate, MSD survivor and Leaders We Deserve President David Hogg: “I’m stunned. I was literally texting with her 48 hours ago about her future political plans. She had such a promising future. This is so incredibly sad.”

— Congressional candidate and former Brevard County School Board member Jennifer Jenkins: “My thoughts are with the family and friends of Coral Springs Vice Mayor Nancy Metayer Bowen. She was an important woman to many on my team, and my heart is breaking for this senseless loss. I was told by so many how incredible she was, and her service to her community was unmatched. May we do her justice.”

— Congressional candidate Oliver Larkin: “I am devastated. I just spoke with Nancy at the Coral Springs Ramadan Iftar. She was one of our community’s very best public servants and just lost her brother Donovan to gun violence in December. This cannot go on. In Nancy’s name and everyone we have lost to this epidemic.”

— Rev. Rudy Laurentt of Haiti: “I am deeply shocked and profoundly saddened by this tragic incident. Words feel insufficient in the face of such a loss. Vice Mayor @NMetayerBowen was not only a colleague but a respected friend whose presence, leadership, and compassion left a lasting impact on her community. My heart goes out to her family, loved ones, and the entire Coral Springs community during this incredibly difficult time. We stand in solidarity with them, grieving a life taken too soon under circumstances that weigh heavily on us all. In moments like these — especially when the tragedy appears rooted in domestic violence — we are reminded of the urgent need to protect, uplift, and support those who may be suffering in silence. This is not just a loss; it is a call to awareness, accountability, and action. Scripture reminds us in Psalm 34:18: ‘The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.’ May her soul rest in peace, and may strength and comfort be granted to all who mourn her.”

— Transportation Workers Union Local 579 Communications Chair Daniel Mendoza: “I’ve written and deleted this a few times. It feels unreal. I’m heartbroken by the news and holding her loved ones in my prayers. Rest easy @NMetayerBowen.”

— Congressional candidate Elijah Manley: “The loss of Nancy Metayer Bowen is devastating, and it hits close to home. Nancy was a friend, a tireless activist, and someone who showed up for people again and again. She brought urgency and purpose to everything she did. She was also a proud fighter with the Black Lives Matter Alliance of Broward, and she never stopped pushing for a more just and compassionate community. Right now, we are holding her family, her loved ones, and everyone across Broward in our thoughts as we process this heartbreaking loss together.”

— Former U.S. Rep. Debbie Mucarsel-Powell: “This is devastating. She was a kind, genuine and strong leader that we all respected. The community, all of us in South Florida, are in mourning. I pray for her family, may they find the strength needed to survive this traumatic and violent loss.”

— Congressional candidate Hector Mujica: “My prayers are with the family of Coral Springs Vice Mayor Nancy Metayer Bowen during this unimaginably painful time. This senseless tragedy demands justice. May her legacy of service continue to guide and inspire our work toward a better South Florida.”

— North Carolina state Sen. Nancy Murdock: “She recently told me — I know you may not feel or see it, but you’re making a huge impact. Keep fighting. To say she is gone too soon is a gross understatement. The world needs her now more than ever. We love you @NMetayerBowen.”

— Friends of the Earth President Erich Pica: “I am at a loss. I mourn for her family, the people of Coral Springs, and for an amazing person whose life ended far too early. … Nancy joined Friends of the Earth’s Board of Directors in 2022, enthusiastically recommended by Meghan Sahli Wells, then-Mayor of Culver City. As Vice Chair of the Board, Nancy ensured space for all perspectives and voices and advocated for staff wellness. She always centered on environmental justice and Democracy for all peoples. She brought deep moral clarity to every Board discussion.”

— Lawyer Hunter Pollack: “I spoke with Nancy not long after her brother died by suicide. We connected over the loss of our younger siblings. She was carrying that pain while dedicating her life to public service. Heartbroken she’s gone. We have a responsibility to honor her and continue the work.”

— Gun control activist Logan Rubenstein: “I am at a loss for words. Nancy had a good heart. She loved her community. She loved what she did. I am so heartbroken. May her memory be a blessing.”

— Political consultant Obi Satoru: “This is incredibly sad. Worked with her on the Harris campaign, and she had a real heart for the people.”

— Foundation for Government Accountability analyst Kristi Stahr: “She was a victim of domestic violence and murdered by her husband. Praying for her family, friends, and her community. May they find peace and strength during this difficult time.”

Occupy Democrats Executive Editor Grant Stern: “Rest in Power, Nancy Metayer Bowen.”

— Campaign manager and former Ruth’s List Florida Vice President Kayla Vanwieringen: “I cannot wrap my head around this senseless tragedy. Nancy was one of the first women I got to work with when I joined Ruth’s List. She embodied light, hope, and deep dedication to her community. It was an honor to know her. Truly heartbroken at this loss.”

— Congressional candidate Alex Vindman: “Nancy Metayer Bowen’s death is devastating news and a profound loss for Florida. Nancy’s impact and leadership will not be forgotten. Keeping her family and in my thoughts during this difficult time.”

— Florida politico Michael Womack: “Holding Nancy and her family close in my heart today. I had the honor of working with her on the Harris campaign, and I was able to spend some time with her in Tallahassee just a few weeks ago. She will be sorely missed by so many.”

— Republican Executive Committeewoman Angie Wong: “This is what happens when domestic violence goes unchecked. It is not a private matter; it is a public safety crisis. Law enforcement must treat domestic violence with urgency and prioritize arresting perpetrators before it escalates into tragedy.”

— City of Weston: “The City of Weston extends its deepest condolences to the family and friends of Coral Springs Vice Mayor Nancy Metayer Bowen, her colleagues and staff at the City of Coral Springs, and all within in her hometown of Coral Springs who are reeling from this tragedy. We support you in this time of grief.”

— GIFFORDS: “We are heartbroken by the loss of Coral Springs Vice Mayor Nancy Metayer Bowen — a public servant who led with courage, even after unimaginable personal tragedy. After losing her brother — a Parkland survivor — to the lasting trauma of gun violence, she continued to show up, serve, and fight for her community. She deserved so much more than this. We are holding her family and the Florida community in our hearts.”

— Run for Something: “We are deeply saddened by the death of Coral Springs Vice Mayor Nancy Metayer Bowen, a RFS alumna who exemplified the ethos of our work. Nancy was a young leader who always showed up for her neighbors, and our thoughts are with her loved ones and community at this difficult time.”