One Dead, Two Wounded in Nashua Country Club Shooting; Suspect Charged with Murder

Nashua, New Hampshire – A shooting at the Sky Meadow Country Club on Saturday night resulted in the death of one individual and injuries to two others, with the lone suspect now in police custody. Hunter Nadeau, 23, a former employee of the club, has been charged with second-degree murder following the incident that unfolded during a wedding event. Police confirmed there was only one shooter, despite initial reports suggesting multiple suspects. The deceased has been identified as Robert Steven DeCesare, 59, who was dining with his family in the club's restaurant, The Prime at Sky Meadow, when he was fatally shot. Two other adults also sustained gunshot wounds: a club host, who was shot near the bathrooms and is in stable condition, and another restaurant patron whose medical status remains unknown. Several other individuals suffered minor injuries while attempting to flee the chaotic scene. Hunter Nadeau was apprehended within 30 minutes in a nearby neighborhood and was cooperative during his arrest. New Hampshire Attorney General John Formella stated that Nadeau had not worked at the country club for approximately a year. Authorities are still investigating the motive behind the attack, noting there is no known connection between Nadeau and the victims. During the shooting, witnesses reported hearing Nadeau make statements such as "The children are safe" and "Free Palestine." However, Attorney General Formella indicated that "it appears to us that those statements were intended to create chaos during the event and that they don't give us much of a sense of his motive," clarifying that the shooting does not appear to be hate-related. Witnesses also described a heroic act where someone struck the gunman with a chair, potentially limiting further harm. Nashua Police Chief Kevin Rourke confirmed that surveillance footage ultimately revealed only one shooter. Governor Kelly Ayotte extended her prayers to the victims and their families, thanking first responders for their swift action. A reunification site was established at the Sheraton Hotel for those affected by the incident, which has sent shockwaves through the community of Nashua.