Stepson of former Coral Springs mayor killed in devastating wrong-way crash on West Sample Road that left community in shock and mourning
Coral Springs, Florida – A quiet Saturday morning in Coral Springs turned into a scene of shock and grief after a deadly crash claimed the life of a local man with deep community ties. Authorities confirmed that 36-year-old Nicholas Addis, the stepson of former Coral Springs Mayor Vincent Boccard, was killed in a wrong-way collision on West Sample Road.
According to the Broward Sheriff’s Office, the crash happened early Saturday when Addis was driving a 2025 gray Hyundai Tucson westbound in the center lane. At the same time, a 2006 Nissan Pathfinder was traveling eastbound in the westbound lanes of Sample Road. Investigators said both vehicles were on the overpass when they collided head-on in a violent impact.
Officials identified the driver of the Nissan as Sult President. He was taken to a local hospital with injuries described as potentially life-threatening. Addis, however, did not survive the crash and was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities have stated that the investigation is still active as they work to determine how the vehicle ended up traveling in the wrong direction.
The sudden loss has left family and friends struggling to process what happened. Addis, born on May 26, 1989, in Miami, is being remembered in his obituary as a devoted father, son, and friend. Those who knew him described a personality full of energy and warmth, marked by his “infectious laughter, kind heart, quick wit, playful and curious spirit,” according to the published tribute.
In a deeply personal social media message, Boccard expressed his grief and disbelief. He wrote that his son was “taken from us… by a wrong-way driver on Sample Road,” and shared memories of a young man who could “bring a smile and laugh to your day.” The former mayor also reflected on Addis’s future and family life, saying, “He was bright, witty, intelligent and looking so forward to his new life with his beautiful son Everson,” while asking the public for prayers during this difficult time.
The tragedy also echoed through city hall. During a Coral Springs commission meeting earlier in the week, officials paused to acknowledge the loss affecting the former mayor’s family. While the meeting primarily focused on honoring former city commissioner Nancy Metayer, several leaders spoke about the sudden death that had impacted one of the city’s former top officials.
Mayor Scott Brook, visibly emotional, addressed the incident in remarks that reflected both personal connection and disbelief. “My good friend, former mayor Vince Boccard, and his wife, Terry, lost their son, Nick, who I’ve known about 25 years,” he said. “We spent a lot of time together over the years with our families. And at least for me, what I’m experiencing, what has occurred, to me, is unfathomable.”
As the investigation continues, the community is preparing to say goodbye. A Mass for Addis is scheduled from 10 to 11 a.m. on April 17 at St. Andrew Catholic Church in Coral Springs. Later that same day, a wake will be held from 5 to 9 p.m. at Kraeer Funeral Home and Cremation Center.
For now, questions remain about how the wrong-way driving incident occurred on a busy roadway. But for those who knew Nicholas Addis, the focus is on memory, family, and the sudden absence of a man described as full of life, laughter, and promise.
