In a tragic event over the weekend at Sky Meadow Country Club in Nashua, New Hampshire, a shooting during a wedding reception left one man dead and two others injured. The incident unfolded Saturday afternoon, prompting a rapid response from patrons who exhibited remarkable courage in the face of danger.
The primary suspect, Hunter Nadeau, 23, was arrested shortly after the shooting and charged with second-degree murder. Witnesses recounted a scene of panic as Nadeau allegedly entered the venue, possibly targeting a restaurant employee. Notably, Robert DeCesare Jr., 59, lost his life attempting to shield his wife and daughter from harm.
“My husband got caught in the fire trying to protect us,” stated Charlene DeCesare in an email about the horrifying event. As Nadeau began firing, patrons quickly mobilized, with one witness describing how a DJ struck Nadeau with a chair to help subdue him.
New Hampshire Attorney General John Formella praised the selflessness of the restaurant patrons who intervened, stating that their actions likely prevented additional casualties. Eyewitness accounts detailed the chaotic moments that followed the shots, with guests rushing to safety and emergency services swiftly responding to the scene.
As investigations continue, authorities are working to determine Nadeau's motive, while community members and local leaders express their support for the victims' families. Club owner Rob Parsons mourned DeCesare's passing and acknowledged the heroism displayed by those on-site during the crisis.
Two other victims were reported: one, a club employee in critical condition, and the other, a patron with undisclosed injuries. As the community reflects on the incident, it remains vigilant in hopes of safeguarding against such tragedies in the future.
