Coral Springs Councilwoman Nancy Metayer Bowen Remembered as Haitian American Trailblazer

The 38-year-old politician was expected to launch a congressional campaign before her tragic death, which is being investigated as a domestic violence case.

Apr. 2, 2026 at 2:07am

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Nancy Metayer Bowen, a twice-elected member of the Coral Springs City Council, made history in 2020 as the first Black woman and first Haitian American elected to represent the city. She was remembered as a passionate community organizer, environmentalist, and advocate for the Haitian community before her sudden death, which is being criminally investigated.

Why it matters

Metayer Bowen's historic victory in Coral Springs, a city that is only 24.8% Black, represented the growing political influence of the Haitian American community in South Florida. Her death is a tragic loss for the community she served and championed.

The details

Metayer Bowen, 38, was found dead in her home on Wednesday morning after police were asked to conduct a welfare check when she failed to show up for a meeting. Her husband, Stephen Bowen, was arrested, and the incident is being treated as a domestic violence case. Metayer Bowen was expected to launch a congressional campaign soon, according to Rep. Jared Moskowitz and other sources familiar with her plans.

  • On Wednesday morning, Coral Springs police officers found Metayer Bowen's body inside her home.
  • In December, Metayer Bowen's 26-year-old brother, Donovan Metayer, died by suicide.

The players

Nancy Metayer Bowen

A twice-elected member of the Coral Springs City Council and the first Black woman and first Haitian American elected to represent the city.

Stephen Bowen

Metayer Bowen's husband, who was arrested in connection with her death.

Santra Denis

The executive director of the Miami Workers Center, a community organization, and a relative of Metayer Bowen.

Wanda Tima

The founder of L'union Suite, a South Florida-based social media platform that promotes the Haitian community.

Dotie Joseph

A state representative from North Miami and a friend of Metayer Bowen.

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What they’re saying

“She was a breath of fresh air. People trusted her. She was a beacon of what is possible in Haitian politics.”

— Santra Denis, Executive Director, Miami Workers Center

“She had so much to live for, so much she wanted to do. It just feels like she got cheated.”

— Wanda Tima, Founder, L'union Suite

“I witnessed her passion, brilliance and commitment to public service firsthand. Her historic leadership as the first Black and Haitian American woman elected in Coral Springs will never be forgotten.”

— Mike Gelin, Former Tamarac Commissioner

What’s next

The investigation into Metayer Bowen's death is ongoing, and authorities have not yet released details about the cause or circumstances surrounding her passing.

The takeaway

Metayer Bowen's tragic death is a profound loss for the Haitian American community in South Florida, which she championed as a trailblazing elected official and community leader. Her legacy will continue to inspire others to follow in her footsteps and advocate for their communities.