NASHUA, N.H. — A tragic shooting that unfolded during a wedding reception at the Sky Meadow Country Club left one person dead and several others injured. Hunter Nadeau, 23, has been charged with second-degree murder following the incident.
Authorities reported that Robert DeCesare Jr., 59, was killed while attempting to protect his wife and daughter from the gunfire. His wife, Charlene, described the harrowing moment as the shooter seemingly targeted the venue’s employees.
Witnesses noted that several patrons of the country club acted heroically, with at least one guest, a DJ named Michael Homewood, striking the shooter with a chair to subdue him and helping to prevent further loss of life.
New Hampshire Attorney General John Formella praised the courage of the patrons who intervened amidst the chaos, helping to avert what could have been a more tragic outcome. “It’s thanks to their selfless actions that more lives were not lost,” he stated.
The shooting, which authorities are still investigating, sparked discussions around community resilience and the urgent need for comprehensive assessments of motive.
Victims included a club employee who is recovering from critical wounds, while other guests suffered non-life-threatening injuries. Community support for the victims' families has been overwhelming, as the club’s owner expressed sorrow, calling DeCesare a hero.
As the investigation continues, Nashua community members are left grappling with the aftermath of violence that struck close to home during what should have been a day of celebration.
