A joyous wedding reception in Nashua, New Hampshire, took a horrifying turn when a masked gunman opened fire, resulting in the death of one guest and injuries to several others. The shocking incident unfolded as the newlyweds were about to take the floor for their first dance. Eyewitnesses recounted that the attacker, his face concealed, yelled “Free Palestine” before commencing the assault.
The alleged perpetrator, 23-year-old Hunter Nadeau, was apprehended on Saturday night at the Sky Meadow Country Club, a venue situated roughly 40 miles north of Boston. Nadeau is now facing murder charges. The victim who lost his life in the tragic incident was identified as 59-year-old Robert Steven DeCesare.
Eyewitnesses described a chilling scene where the masked attacker barged into the wedding, made offensive gestures towards the guests, and assured that the children were safe before voicing his political slogan. The unexpected violence plunged the festive occasion into disarray. Tom Bartelson, the groom’s uncle, recalled, “We heard about six shots and everybody ducked for cover and next thing you know we’re rushed into safe spots.”
The motive behind the attack is still under investigation by authorities, and it is yet to be determined whether the assault was targeted or random. In the wake of the shooting, at least six people were admitted to the hospital with injuries incurred while seeking shelter and escaping the venue.
Initial reports raised the possibility of two shooters, triggering a widespread manhunt across southern New Hampshire and northern Massachusetts. However, subsequent investigations and video surveillance confirmed Nadeau as the sole suspect.
The shooting incited panic among the wedding attendees, with many separated from their loved ones in the ensuing chaos. Evie O’Rourke, mother of the deceased victim, shared her distressing experience of not being able to find her son in the aftermath.
Nashua’s Mayor Jim Donchess extended his condolences to the affected families and commended the local police for their prompt response in capturing the suspect. Nadeau is anticipated to face additional charges related to the injured victims and is slated for arraignment in the Ninth Circuit Court in Nashua on Monday.