Family remembers father killed by wrong-way drunk driver in Broward County

BROWARD COUNTY, Fla. — Nicholas Addis, a 36-year-old father with a 2-year-old son named Everson, is being remembered by his family after he was killed nearly two months ago by a wrong-way drunk driver along Sample Road in Broward County.

Read more Law enforcement warns of undercover operations during FIFA World Cup in Miami

He was described by his family as a man full of life who shared a strong, faith-based, loving bond with them.

“Our family will never ever ever be the same. I see it every day. It is not the same. It will never be the same,” former Coral Springs Mayor Vincent Boccard said.

Authorities said Addis was struck and killed by a wrong-way driver. Dash cam video captured the crash.

His stepfather Boccard, and his mother, Terry Boccard, said the loss is still difficult to put into words.

“You don’t realize how important somebody is until they’re gone. You don’t realize the little things that they do and that you do with them,” Boccard said. “All those memories, they flood your mind. They pass through.”

Asked whether the tragedy made him want to return to public office, Boccard said he is stepping away from politics.

Read more Virginia man gets life in prison for double murder scheme in affair with Brazilian au pair

“I gave 20 plus years of public office to cities and I want to spend time with my family now,” he said.

“We have a new mission. We’ve got to get through this and I want to create a legacy for my son somehow,” he added.

The driver accused in the crash, 47-year-old Sult President, has appeared in court and is currently in jail. Addis’ parents said they are beginning to find some closure.

“Just the way it happened, it’s devastating, so unnecessary. I’m happy he’s now put away and he’ll have his trial. He can’t do that to someone else now,” Terry Boccard said.

In the meantime, Addis’ younger sister, Sophia, recently graduated from Coral Springs Charter School, where her brother once attended. She wore his graduation cap to honor him.

Read more Detectives identify Californian woman who died while snorkeling off state park in Broward

The family continues to share memories of his charisma, spirit and legacy.