CONCORD, N.H. (AP) — Hunter Nadeau, 23, is slated to appear in court on Monday to face charges in the fatal shooting that occurred on Saturday at a country club in Nashua, New Hampshire. The incident resulted in one death and two injuries, startling attendees at a wedding event occurring on the premises.
The victim, Robert DeCesare Jr., 59, was killed while attempting to protect his wife and daughter as chaos erupted. Witnesses reported that the shooter appeared to specifically target a restaurant employee, igniting a frantic scramble among the diners.
New Hampshire Attorney General John Formella praised the quick, brave actions of the patrons who intervened during the shooting, successfully cornering Nadeau and potentially preventing further tragedy.
Eye-witness accounts describe the harrowing scene as guests heard gunfire erupt while celebrating a couple’s wedding. “Everybody ducked for cover,” one attendee recalled. Others described how a DJ at the event hurled a chair at Nadeau, which might have saved several lives by subduing the shooter.
Authorities confirmed that in addition to DeCesare, a restaurant employee remains in critical condition while another injured victim’s status has not yet been disclosed. Multiple guests suffered non-life-threatening injuries, prompting swift response from emergency services who aided about 100 attendees at a nearby firehouse.
The investigation continues to ascertain a motive for Nadeau's actions. While initial fears suggested the possibility of multiple shooters, officials have since clarified that only Nadeau was involved. The community has expressed profound grief over the incident, with local leaders calling for justice.
Victim Robert DeCesare’s widow shared her heartbreak, labeling her husband a hero for his selfless actions during the ordeal. She implored the public to refrain from speculation that might hinder the investigation and added that the family's life has been irrevocably changed due to the tragic event.
Local officials confirmed that additional charges may be forthcoming as investigations progress into the shooting and its motivations. In the meantime, the community of Nashua grieves and honors the bravery exhibited during a harrowing night of violence.
