NASHUA, N.H. (BN24) — A 23-year-old man has been arrested and charged with second-degree murder following a shooting that left one man dead and several others injured at a country club in New Hampshire, where a wedding was taking place.
Robert Steven DeCesare, 59, was fatally shot Saturday evening at the Sky Meadow Country Club in Nashua, a city located about 45 miles northwest of Boston. Two others were also shot, and additional guests sustained injuries from the ensuing chaos, according to authorities.
The suspect, identified as Hunter Nadeau, was taken into custody at the scene and charged with one count of second-degree murder. Investigators said more charges are expected as they continue to examine the circumstances and identify a potential motive.
Witnesses reported that the suspect entered the venue and shouted “Free Palestine” before opening fire. One attendee reportedly subdued the shooter by striking him with a chair. The shooting occurred in a restaurant area adjacent to the wedding celebration.
New Hampshire Senior Assistant Attorney General Peter Hinckley said there is no known connection between Nadeau and the victim. Authorities described the scene as chaotic, with several injuries, including lacerations, a broken hand, and blunt force trauma, reported by Nashua Fire Rescue.
“We heard about six shots and everybody ducked for cover,” said Tom Bartelson, the groom’s uncle. “We were getting together for a dance for the bride and groom — then all chaos went off.”
Bartelson and other witnesses also heard the suspect say, “The children are safe,” along with political phrases such as “Free Palestine.”
Michael Homewood, the wedding DJ, said the situation could have been even more tragic if the suspect had not been stopped.
Officials said Nadeau is expected to be arraigned Monday in Nashua’s Ninth Circuit Court. New Hampshire Attorney General John Formella and Nashua Police Chief Kevin Rourke indicated that further charges are likely as the investigation progresses.
Rep. Maggie Goodlander of New Hampshire said she is monitoring the incident closely and extended condolences to the victims and their families.
“This is not something people expect to happen on a Saturday night in Nashua,” Hinckley said at a news conference.
Nashua, a city frequently ranked among the most livable in the United States, has previously been recognized by Money magazine and Forbes for its quality of life. The weekend shooting has left the community shocked and searching for answers as investigators work to determine what led to the attack.
