Nashua, New Hampshire — A shooting at the Sky Meadow Country Club on Saturday night left one person dead and several others injured, leading to the arrest of a suspect charged with second-degree murder. Hunter Nadeau, 23, is accused of fatally shooting 59-year-old Robert DeCesare during the incident, which prompted emergency responses from law enforcement across multiple jurisdictions.
According to the New Hampshire Attorney General’s Office, the chaos unfolded around 7:30 p.m. when Nadeau entered the club and began firing a handgun, killing DeCesare, who was reportedly dining with family. Witnesses indicated that DeCesare attempted to shield his wife and daughter during the attack. Evie O’Rourke, identified as DeCesare’s mother, described her son’s actions as heroic, stating he “kicked the door open” to protect them.
Several other patrons at the country club were injured, some while trying to escape the scene. Initial reports suggest that two people were shot, although their current conditions remain undisclosed. The total number of injuries is not yet known, with some individuals possibly seeking treatment on their own.
More than 100 people were at the venue during the shooting, which has left many in shock. O’Rourke expressed disbelief over the violence, reflecting on the family’s normal evening out at the club, saying, “They were just enjoying a meal, and in comes the guy… It’s just unbelievable.”
Emergency responders from over a dozen New Hampshire and Massachusetts communities arrived promptly after receiving distress calls. Audio recordings revealed dispatchers alerting police to a severe injury in the aftermath of the attack.
Nadeau was apprehended at the scene, and while he is expected to face additional charges, authorities have noted that there appears to be no connection between him and DeCesare. Witnesses reported that Nadeau shouted remarks during the shooting, suggesting a possible motive, but the Attorney General’s Office has not yet released any information regarding this.
The investigation continues, with authorities searching for a Toyota RAV4 that is believed to be connected to the incident. Witnesses described the shooter’s demeanor and comments during the attack, noting an unsettling calm amidst the panic.
Nadeau is scheduled for arraignment on Monday, and the community mourns the loss of DeCesare, whose family is preparing for a wedding in just six weeks, underscoring the tragedy of losing a loved one so suddenly.