Urgent Update: Gunman Arrested in Deadly Nashua Country Club Shooting
BREAKING: A gunman has been arrested following a deadly shooting at the Sky Meadow Country Club in Nashua, New Hampshire, during a wedding on September 30, 2023. One man, identified as 59-year-old Robert Steven DeCesare, was killed, and two others were wounded in this shocking incident.
Authorities have confirmed that the suspect, 23-year-old Hunter Nadeau, is in custody and has been charged with one count of second-degree murder. Investigators expect to file additional charges related to the other shooting victims. Nadeau is set to be arraigned at the Ninth Circuit Court in Nashua on Monday, October 2, 2023.
Witnesses described a chaotic scene as the shooting unfolded. Tom Bartelson, who was attending the wedding, recounted hearing the shooter claim, “the children are safe” before firing multiple shots. “We heard about six shots and everybody ducked for cover,” he said. Panic ensued as guests scrambled for safety, with many dropping to the ground to shield themselves.
The mother of the deceased, Evie O’Rourke, expressed her anguish, stating, “He went down. My daughter-in-law and granddaughter escaped… They saw my son go down and they saw blood.” Eyewitness Emily Ernst described the gunman as wearing all black and a mask, recalling, “He just raised the gun and then we ran.”
Authorities initially feared there might be two shooters but later confirmed that Nadeau acted alone. Investigators are still working to determine the motive behind this tragic act. There appears to be no known connection between Nadeau and DeCesare, raising further questions about the incident.
In response to the shooting, Nashua Mayor Jim Donchess expressed confidence in law enforcement to uncover the truth. “The message is for every community out there is that no matter how unlikely it seems, it can happen where you live,” he stated.
U.S. Representative Maggie Goodlander is closely monitoring the situation, extending her condolences to the victims and families affected by this tragedy.
As investigations continue, authorities have yet to release details on the conditions of the two wounded victims.
Stay tuned for updates on this developing story as more information becomes available. The community remains on edge as they grapple with the aftermath of this shocking shooting at a celebration turned tragedy.
