Who are Nikolas Cruz’s parents, Lynda and Roger?

MARJORY Stoneman Douglas High School gunman, Nikolas Cruz, grew up in upscale Parkland, Florida.

Here is what we know about the Parkland shooter’s family.

Who are Nikolas Cruz’s parents? 

Nikolas Cruz grew up with his adoptive family in upscale Parkland, Florida.

His biological mother reportedly lived only miles away in various locations throughout Broward County, repeatedly getting into trouble with the police.

Brenda Woodard

Brenda is Cruz’s biological mother.

She was last known to live in Hallandale Beach and has a lengthy criminal history.

This includes convictions for battery, grand theft, and drug possession, dating back to 1988.

In the three decades of legal records, many of Woodard’s convictions are for minor crimes, such as driving or vehicle violations.

She has also been accused of many violent crimes, including beating someone with a tire iron.

Lynda and Roger Cruz 

Lynda and Roger adopted Nikolas shortly after his birth using a private attorney. 

Roger died when the boys were young, and Lynda passed away in November 2017 – just two months before the shooting.

Who is Nikolas Cruz’s brother Zach? 

Brenda Woodard became pregnant again, this time with a different man as the father.

Lynda and Roger later adopted Nikolas’ half-brother, Zachary, born in 1999.

The two boys also have a half-sister, 31-year-old Daniella Woodard. 

Court records show Daniella, who lived in Miami, also has a criminal history.

This includes convictions for battery, resisting arrest, and credit card fraud.

What has Nikolas Cruz’s family said?

Brother Zachary Cruz said: “I always carry it with me. Every day. 

“There is no forgetting.”

He added: “I’m stuck between loving him and hating him because of what he did.”

In a statement to The Sun, he said that he is “pleased” his brother is admitting to the Parkland school murders.

He said: “I am pleased that my brother is taking responsibility for his actions.

“The fact that he is doing so without a deal in place tells me he is sincere.”

He concluded: “I pray for the victims and their families every day and I hope they find some peace.”

What was Nikolas Cruz’s sentencing?

On Thursday, October 13, Cruz was sentenced to life in prison.

The sentence was recommended by the jury.

The jury did not unanimously agree that he should be sentenced to death.

The formal sentencing took place on November 2, 2022.

Judge Elizabeth Scherer sentenced him to 17 life terms without the possibility of parole.