Arrest Made in Deadly Nashua Wedding Shooting: One Killed, Two Injured at Sky Meadow Country Club
NASHUA, N.H. — What began as a night of joyous celebration ended in chaos, bloodshed, and tragedy at the Sky Meadow Country Club on Saturday, September 20, 2025, as a gunman opened fire during a wedding event, killing one man and injuring two others. Now, law enforcement officials have announced an arrest in connection with the shooting, bringing some measure of clarity to a still-developing investigation.
Suspect in Custody
New Hampshire Attorney General John M. Formella and Nashua Police Chief Kevin Rourke jointly confirmed Sunday that 23-year-old Hunter Nadeau has been arrested and charged with second-degree murder in the shooting death of 59-year-old Robert Steven DeCesare.
According to the initial investigation, Nadeau used a handgun during the attack and shot three adults, including DeCesare, during the same violent incident. While the names of the two wounded victims have not yet been released, authorities say both sustained non-fatal injuries and are recovering at local hospitals. Their current conditions remain undisclosed to the public out of respect for privacy and the ongoing investigation.
Officials have emphasized that there is no known prior connection between Nadeau and DeCesare, raising disturbing questions about the motive behind the shooting and how the suspect came to be present at the private event.
The Attack at Sky Meadow
The incident occurred during a private wedding reception being held at Sky Meadow Country Club, a prestigious venue located in southern Nashua known for its exclusivity and picturesque setting. According to reports from witnesses and officials, the shooting erupted shortly before 10:30 p.m. on Saturday night, sending guests scrambling for safety and triggering a massive emergency response.
First responders arriving at the scene found DeCesare gravely wounded, and despite immediate life-saving efforts, he was pronounced dead shortly thereafter. The two additional victims were stabilized on site before being transported to Elliot Hospital and St. Joseph Hospital, respectively.
Witnesses described the scene as one of “absolute chaos,” with guests diving under tables and fleeing the banquet hall as the sounds of gunfire rang out.
“This was supposed to be the happiest day of someone’s life,” said one wedding guest. “Instead, it turned into a nightmare we’ll never forget.”
Legal Proceedings and Additional Charges
At present, Hunter Nadeau is facing one count of second-degree murder, a felony charge that alleges he knowingly caused the death of Robert DeCesare. According to state law, a conviction on this charge could result in a sentence of up to life imprisonment.
Authorities have stated that additional charges are expected, including those connected to the two surviving victims. These may include attempted murder, first- or second-degree assault, or other weapons-related offenses.
Nadeau is expected to be arraigned on Monday, September 22, at the Ninth Circuit Court in Nashua. Until then, he remains in custody.
Officials stressed that the charges are still allegations, and Nadeau, like any criminal defendant, is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
Investigation Ongoing
The shooting has sparked an intensive investigation led by the New Hampshire Attorney General’s Office, the Nashua Police Department, and the State Police Major Crime Unit. Investigators are working to gather physical evidence, analyze surveillance footage, and interview dozens of witnesses who attended the wedding.
While law enforcement has not commented on a potential motive, they confirmed that the shooting appeared to be an isolated incident, and no ongoing threat exists to the general public.
“This appears to be a senseless act of violence committed in a setting where people should have been celebrating, not fearing for their lives,” said AG Formella. “Our hearts go out to the victims, their families, and the entire community impacted by this horrific event.”
Anyone with photos, video, or firsthand knowledge of the incident is urged to contact the Nashua Police Department or submit tips anonymously through New Hampshire’s Crimeline.
Remembering the Victim: Robert Steven DeCesare
The man killed in the attack, Robert Steven DeCesare, 59, has been identified by the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner. DeCesare, a well-respected member of the New England business community, leaves behind family, friends, and colleagues mourning a life cut short by inexplicable violence.
Loved ones describe DeCesare as kind-hearted, generous, and full of life — someone who loved being around people and was deeply devoted to his family.
“He was the kind of person who lit up the room when he walked in,” said a friend. “To think that his life ended like this, at a wedding, no less, is just heartbreaking.”
Funeral arrangements are currently being finalized, and the family has requested privacy as they grieve.
A City in Mourning, Demanding Answers
The Nashua community has been left reeling in the wake of this tragedy. City officials, religious leaders, and advocacy groups have all expressed their condolences and called for a thorough investigation.
“This kind of violence has no place in our city,” said Mayor Jim Donchess in a written statement. “We are working closely with law enforcement to ensure justice is served and that those impacted receive the support they need.”
Grief counselors have been made available to wedding guests and first responders traumatized by the event. Sky Meadow Country Club also issued a brief statement, expressing sorrow and affirming their full cooperation with the investigation.
Conclusion
As the legal process begins and the investigation unfolds, the community of Nashua remains united in grief and in its desire for answers. The tragic death of Robert DeCesare, the injuries to two others, and the trauma experienced by countless witnesses mark a somber chapter in a city known more for peaceful neighborhoods than for violent crime.
What was supposed to be a celebration of love and unity has instead become a sobering reminder of life’s fragility and the need for continued vigilance against acts of senseless violence.
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