Nashua Country Club Shooting: 23-Year-Old Hunter Nadeau Charged with Murder Amid Shocking Wedding Day Attack
NASHUA, N.H. — A peaceful wedding celebration turned into a scene of chaos and terror at the Sky Meadow Country Club in Nashua, New Hampshire, on Saturday, September 20, 2025, when a gunman entered the event and opened fire on attendees, killing one person and wounding two others.
Authorities have since arrested and charged Hunter Nadeau, 23, in connection with the deadly incident. According to New Hampshire Attorney General John M. Formella, Nadeau has been formally charged with second-degree murder for the fatal shooting of 59-year-old Robert Steven DeCesare, a guest at the wedding.
The shooting occurred in front of horrified family and friends, turning what should have been a joyful occasion into an unthinkable tragedy.
Sudden Chaos in a Celebratory Setting
The shooting unfolded at the exclusive Sky Meadow Country Club, a high-end venue often used for weddings and private functions. Witnesses say the night had been proceeding as expected — dancing, dinner, and speeches — until a man later identified as Hunter Nadeau stormed into the banquet area just after 10:15 p.m.
Multiple eyewitnesses report that Nadeau shouted several bizarre and alarming statements before opening fire. Among them:
“The children are OK”
“The children are safe”
“Free Palestine”
Then, according to witnesses, he pulled out a handgun and began firing into the crowd, striking three individuals — including DeCesare, who later succumbed to his injuries. Two others were wounded and transported to local hospitals. Both surviving victims remain in stable condition as of Sunday evening.
Authorities have not confirmed a motive for the shooting but said during a press conference that there is no known personal or prior connection between Nadeau and any of the victims, including DeCesare.
Victims and Impact
The deceased victim, Robert Steven DeCesare, 59, was well-known in the New England community, described by friends as “warm, charismatic, and deeply generous.” He was reportedly attending the wedding with family and had no connection to Nadeau.
The two surviving victims — whose names have not yet been released — were also guests at the event. Authorities have not confirmed whether they were specifically targeted or injured as part of indiscriminate gunfire.
The bride and groom, whose identities are being withheld, were reportedly not harmed physically, but have been left emotionally shattered by the traumatic events that occurred during their wedding celebration.
“This was supposed to be the happiest day of our lives,” a family member of the couple said. “Instead, we’re trying to figure out how to move forward after witnessing such horror.”
Law Enforcement and Legal Action
Nadeau was quickly subdued and arrested by Nashua police who responded within minutes of the 911 call. He was charged with second-degree murder for the killing of Robert DeCesare and is currently being held without bail.
Attorney General Formella said that additional charges are likely forthcoming, including those connected to the injuries sustained by the other victims.
Nadeau is scheduled to be arraigned on Monday, September 22, in Ninth Circuit Court in Nashua. His mental state, background, and potential ideological motivations are now subjects of intense scrutiny by state and federal investigators.
Mental Health and Ideological Questions
Though officials have not confirmed a motive, the statements made by Nadeau — including “Free Palestine” and assurances about the safety of children — have led to speculation that his actions may have been driven by ideological, political, or psychological factors.
“Right now, we’re keeping all possibilities open,” a source close to the investigation said. “This could be a mental health crisis, it could be politically motivated, or it could be both. We won’t know until we dig deeper into his digital footprint, interviews, and background.”
It is not yet known whether Nadeau has a criminal record or history of mental illness. Authorities are working with the FBI and state forensic experts to analyze any social media activity, writings, or manifestos that may shed light on his intentions.
Community in Shock
The Nashua community has been left reeling in the aftermath of the shooting, especially given the venue — a country club — and the nature of the event — a private wedding. Residents have expressed both sorrow and outrage.
“I can’t believe something like this happened here,” said local resident Eleanor Reid, who lives near the Sky Meadow Country Club. “It’s terrifying to think a person could just walk in and start shooting innocent people.”
The venue released a brief statement expressing condolences to the victims and vowing full cooperation with law enforcement.
Remembering Robert DeCesare
Friends and family are mourning the loss of Robert Steven DeCesare, a respected member of the community and a beloved father and husband.
“He was the heart and soul of every room he entered,” said longtime friend James Halbert. “He lived for his family and for giving back. To lose him like this, in such a meaningless and violent way, is beyond devastating.”
Funeral arrangements are pending, and the family has asked for privacy as they navigate this sudden loss.
What Comes Next
As the investigation continues, authorities have assured the public that there is no ongoing threat, and the shooting appears to be an isolated incident involving a single suspect.
Law enforcement officials are urging anyone who attended the wedding or has information — particularly photos or video recordings — to come forward.
“We are committed to ensuring justice for the victims of this senseless tragedy,” said AG Formella. “We ask for patience as we continue the investigation and support those affected.”
If You Have Information:
Please contact the Nashua Police Department at (603) 589-1665 or submit an anonymous tip via New Hampshire Crimeline.
Editor’s Note: The suspect in this case, Hunter Nadeau, is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. This is an ongoing investigation, and more details will be reported as they become available.
Resources for Trauma Survivors:
Support is available for anyone affected by the Nashua shooting. Mental health services and crisis counseling can be accessed through:
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