Tragedy Unfolds at a Joyous Occasion

In a shocking turn of events, a New Hampshire country club turned into a scene of chaos on Saturday when a gunman opened fire during a wedding celebration, resulting in one fatality and two injuries.

Victim Identified

The victim, identified as 59-year-old Robert Steven DeCesare, was pronounced dead at the Sky Meadow Country Club in Nashua. New Hampshire Attorney General John Formella and Nashua Police Chief Kevin Rourke confirmed the heartbreaking news.

Suspect Arrested

The accused shooter, Hunter Nadeau, 23, has been arrested and charged with second-degree murder. Authorities have indicated that additional charges may follow, particularly concerning the other two individuals who were shot.

An Evening of Celebration Turned Deadly

Witness Tom Bartelson recounted the terrifying moments as guests attempted to celebrate a joyous union. He described a scene where, just as the dancing began, panic erupted. "We heard about six shots and everybody ducked for cover," Bartelson said, detailing the chaos that ensued.

The Shooter's Words and Motive Remain Unclear

Bartelson noted unsettling remarks from the shooter, who reportedly said, "the children are safe" and "free Palestine," hinting at a possible targeted motive. This statement has left authorities and witnesses alike grappling for answers.

A Mother's Heartbreaking Loss

Evie O'Rourke, DeCesare's mother, expressed her anguish, describing the moment she realized her son had been shot. She witnessed the horrific scene as her daughter-in-law and granddaughter escaped just in time.

Eyewitness Accounts

Emily Ernst, another wedding attendee, recalled seeing a gunman dressed in black with a mask. "We just saw him raise the gun, and then we ran for our lives," she stated, emphasizing the wide-scale panic that ensued.

Community Unites in Grief

Local officials, including Nashua Mayor Jim Donchess, expressed their commitment to ensuring justice. "I have faith in our police to get to the bottom of this," he asserted, urging communities everywhere to acknowledge the stark reality that such violence can occur anywhere.

Federal Response and Community Support

U.S. Rep. Maggie Goodlander voiced her sorrow and concern, resonating with the grief shared by many in Nashua, a city just 70 kilometers northwest of Boston.

As investigators continue to probe the motive behind this tragic event, the community stands united in its mourning for the lives forever changed by this senseless act of violence.