Full Breakdown
Tragic Shooting at Sky Meadow Country Club Claims One Life
9/23/2025, 9:14:50 PM
Overview of the Incident
On the evening of September 20, 2025, a shooting occurred at the Sky Meadow Country Club in Nashua, New Hampshire, during a wedding reception. The alleged shooter, 23-year-old Hunter Nadeau, opened fire, resulting in the death of 59-year-old Robert Steven DeCesare and injuries to two others. Nadeau, a former employee of the club, has been charged with second-degree murder and is expected to face additional charges related to the other victims.
Details of the Shooting
The incident unfolded around 7:30 p.m. as guests gathered for a wedding celebration. Witnesses reported hearing gunfire shortly after the DJ announced that loud noises might occur due to a traditional dish-breaking ceremony. Instead of celebratory sounds, gunshots rang out, leading to chaos as attendees scrambled for safety. DeCesare was dining with his wife, Charlene, and daughter, Makayla, when he lunged at the shooter in an attempt to protect his family. Eyewitness accounts indicate that Nadeau shouted phrases such as “the children are safe” and “Free Palestine” during the attack, although authorities have stated that there is no evidence to suggest that these remarks were politically motivated.
Victims and Casualties
DeCesare succumbed to multiple gunshot wounds, while one of the injured victims, a restaurant employee, was airlifted to Massachusetts General Hospital and is reported to be in critical but stable condition. The other victim's status remains unknown. Additionally, four other individuals sustained non-gunshot injuries while fleeing the scene, including lacerations and blunt force trauma.
Community Response and Heroic Actions
The rapid response of patrons and staff at the country club is credited with preventing further tragedy. One guest reportedly struck Nadeau with a chair, causing him to drop his weapon and flee the scene. New Hampshire Attorney General John Formella praised the selfless actions of those present, stating that their bravery helped contain the situation, which could have been much worse.
Official Statements and Community Impact
Rob Parsons, the owner of Sky Meadow Country Club, expressed his heartbreak over the incident, describing DeCesare as a hero. He emphasized the strength of the community, stating, “We will not let the cowardly acts of this perpetrator define us.” In the aftermath, a candlelight vigil was held to honor DeCesare and support the victims and their families.
Charlene DeCesare, in a statement, described her husband as a beloved figure in their community, stating, “You’d be hard-pressed to find a man more loved.” She urged the public to refrain from speculation regarding the motives behind the shooting, emphasizing the need for respect and support during this difficult time.
Investigation and Legal Proceedings
Nadeau appeared in court via video link on September 22, where he waived his formal arraignment. A probable cause hearing is scheduled for October 1. Investigators continue to explore the motive behind the shooting, with no known connection between Nadeau and DeCesare. Formella reiterated that the investigation is ongoing, and additional charges are anticipated as more information becomes available.
Conclusion
The shooting at Sky Meadow Country Club has left the Nashua community in shock, highlighting the unpredictable nature of violence in public spaces. As the investigation unfolds, the focus remains on supporting the victims and their families while seeking justice for Robert DeCesare, whose heroic actions in the face of danger have resonated deeply within the community.
