Gunman Arrested After Country Club Wedding Shooting in Nashua

Hunter Nadeau, 23, was arrested Sunday after opening fire at a wedding reception at Sky Meadow Country Club in Nashua, New Hampshire, killing 59-year-old guest Robert DeCesare and wounding two others, authorities said.

Wedding Guests in Shock In one of New Hampshire’s rare mass-casualty events, a former club employee allegedly entered the ballroom Saturday night and opened fire during the first dance, prompting panic among more than 100 attendees.

Shooting at Sky Meadow Country Club

Shortly before 9 p.m., Hunter Nadeau walked into the clubhouse and discharged multiple rounds with a handgun, striking three people. DeCesare, who shielded his wife and daughter, died at the scene. Two other adults-a staff member and a guest-were hospitalized with injuries that were later described as non-life-threatening.

Swift Arrest and Charges

Police apprehended Nadeau in a nearby neighborhood within hours. He faces one count of second-degree murder and is expected to be arraigned Monday in Nashua’s Ninth Circuit Court. Additional charges for the two wounded victims are anticipated, officials said.

Possible Motives Under Investigation

Authorities initially reported two suspects but confirmed surveillance footage shows a lone gunman. Witnesses recall Nadeau shouting “Free Palestine” during the shooting, though investigators have found no evidence of a hate crime or prior connection to the victims.

Community Response and Safety Measures

  • Nashua Mayor Jim Donchess praised first responders and guests who helped subdue the shooter, noting that a guest striking Nadeau with a chair likely prevented further casualties.
  • Attorney General John Formella assured the public there is no ongoing threat and pledged full cooperation with Massachusetts authorities assisting in the investigation.

Sky Meadow Country Club Statement

“Sky Meadow Country Club is cooperating fully with law enforcement,” the club’s management said in a brief statement, adding they cannot comment further while the probe continues.

As the community reels from this tragedy, local leaders emphasize vigilance and support for the victims’ families as the legal process unfolds.