CONCORD, N.H. (PulseWire) — A man has been charged in a fatal shooting at Sky Meadow Country Club in Nashua, New Hampshire, after restaurant patrons intervened to stop the gunman, likely preventing a greater tragedy. The incident resulted in the death of Robert DeCesare Jr., 59, with two others wounded amid chaos during a wedding reception.
Hunter Nadeau, 23, has been arrested and charged with one count of second-degree murder. Authorities have confirmed he was previously employed at the country club and are still determining a motive for the shooting.
Nadeau was apprehended shortly after the incident on Saturday and is expected to appear in court. The attorney general noted that witnesses displayed remarkable bravery, with one local DJ stating that a patron had struck Nadeau with a chair in a bid to subdue him.
Describing the event, Charlene DeCesare, the victim's wife, said, “My husband got caught in the fire trying to protect us,” emphasizing the tragic loss her family has endured. Meanwhile, Rob Parsons, the club owner, expressed his heartbreak over the shooting, labeling DeCesare a hero for his actions.
Authorities reported that Nadeau reportedly made chaotic statements during the attack, targeting a restaurant employee, leading to speculation about his motives. Investigators are also examining reports that claim the gunman shouted a specific slogan prior to the attack, though officials have ruled out any hate-based agenda associated with the violence.
The incident has shocked the local community, with New Hampshire Governor Kelly Ayotte offering her condolences and stating that the state will assist local law enforcement in the investigation.
As the community mourns, the incident raises pressing questions about public safety and the resilience of individuals in the face of unthinkable violence.
