Coral Springs Vice Mayor Nancy Metayer Bowen, the first Black and Haitian American woman elected to the city commission, was found dead in her home Wednesday morning after a wellness check.

Police say her death appears to be a domestic incident, and her husband is in custody.

State Sen. Shevrin Jones, D-Miami Gardens, a close friend, said he spoke with her just hours before her death, and is struggling to find the words to honor her memory.

"She did not deserve this," he said. "I just spoke with her yesterday and I'm trying to figure out and process, what do you say about someone who you just spoke with less than 24 hours ago, who was just gunned down senselessly?"

Metayer Bowen, 38, was an environmental scientist and rising star in Florida politics. She served as the Florida Democratic Party's vice chair of Haitian American Voter Engagement and was preparing to run for Congress this year, according to sources.

Police have not released her cause of death, but the case is being investigated as a domestic violence incident. Her family described her as "a source of strength, wisdom, and love" who "led with integrity, compassion, and an unwavering sense of purpose."

Jones reflected on the loss for Metayer Bowen's family, her community and those who knew her. He described her as a dedicated public servant whose death leaves a void.

"Nancy Metayer was more than just a friend to me," he said. "She was a sister and a trusted voice who I listened to when it came to advice and how to maneuver in this work."

Florida Democratic Party Chair Nikki Fried called Metayer Bowen "a brilliant barrier-breaker" who "loved her community deeply." House Democratic Leader Fentrice Driskell described her as "a kind-hearted, humble servant leader" whose death "is a shock that reverberates throughout our entire state."

Coral Springs police continue to investigate the case.

Source: Public News Service