Hunter Nadeau Sky Meadow Country Club Shooting: Complete Investigation Report and Analysis

Sky Meadow Country Club Shooting: What Happened on September 21, 2025

On the evening of September 21, 2025, at approximately 8:30 PM, a deadly shooting incident occurred at the Sky Meadow Country Club in Nashua, New Hampshire, forever changing the lives of those present and shocking the local community. The incident took place during a wedding reception, transforming what should have been a joyous celebration into a scene of tragedy and chaos.

Hunter Nadeau, a 23-year-old former employee of the country club, opened fire inside the venue's restaurant area, which was adjacent to where a wedding reception was taking place. The shooting resulted in one fatality, multiple injuries, and left over 100 guests and staff members traumatized by the violent attack.

The timing and location of the attack made it particularly devastating, as families and friends had gathered to celebrate a wedding when the violence erupted. The incident highlighted critical questions about venue security, workplace violence prevention, and the safety protocols in place at public gathering spaces.

Hunter Nadeau: Profile of the Alleged Shooter

Hunter Nadeau, the 23-year-old suspect in the Sky Meadow Country Club shooting, was a former employee of the venue where the tragic incident occurred. According to New Hampshire Attorney General John Formella, Nadeau had worked at the country club for approximately one year, though the specific nature of his employment and the circumstances surrounding his departure remain under investigation.

Law enforcement officials have confirmed that Nadeau had no known connection to Robert DeCesare, the 59-year-old victim who lost his life in the attack. This detail has made the motive behind the shooting even more perplexing for investigators and has raised questions about what drove Nadeau to commit this act of violence.

During the shooting, witnesses reported that Nadeau made several statements, including "The children are safe" and "Free Palestine." However, investigators believe these statements were likely intended to create chaos rather than indicate any specific ideological motivation. Attorney General Formella emphasized that there is currently no evidence to suggest the shooting was a hate-based crime.

Previous Employment and Access

Nadeau's history as a former employee raises important questions about background checks, employee monitoring, and access control systems at hospitality venues. His familiarity with the layout and operations of Sky Meadow Country Club may have influenced his ability to carry out the attack and navigate the facility during the incident.

The Victims: Robert DeCesare and the Injured

Robert Steven DeCesare, 59, was the sole fatality in the Sky Meadow Country Club shooting. DeCesare was dining at the country club restaurant with his family when the attack occurred. According to his mother, Evie O'Rourke, DeCesare heroically attempted to protect his wife and daughter when the shooting began.

"He kicked the door open, and Rob just went right for him and protected his family," O'Rourke told reporters. "His thought was to take care of his family." The family was particularly devastated as DeCesare's daughter was scheduled to be married in just six weeks following the tragic incident.

Additional Victims and Injuries

In addition to DeCesare's death, two other individuals sustained gunshot wounds during the attack:

• Country Club Employee: One staff member was shot and remains hospitalized in critical but stable condition at a Boston hospital
• Patron: Another individual present at the venue sustained gunshot injuries

At least four other people suffered non-gunshot injuries while attempting to flee the scene, including:

• Broken hand
• Blunt force trauma
• Chest pains and panic attacks
• Various lacerations

Eyewitness Testimonies: Chaos and Heroism

Multiple witnesses at the scene provided detailed accounts of the terrifying moments when the shooting began and the heroic actions that followed. These testimonies paint a picture of chaos, fear, and remarkable courage displayed by ordinary people in extraordinary circumstances.

Mike Homewood's Account

Mike Homewood, a DJ who was working at the wedding reception, described the suspect's appearance and demeanor: "The one thing I can say is when he was walking across the dance floor, I could tell he was the guy because he wasn't dressed up for a wedding, he wasn't dressed up to go to dinner and for lack of a better definition he just looked like a weirdo."

Homewood also witnessed the heroic actions of patrons who intervened: "He hit him over the head with a chair, and he probably saved a bunch of lives just doing that."

Tom Bartelson's Experience

Tom Bartelson of Pepperell, Massachusetts, who was attending his nephew's wedding, described the moment the violence erupted: "Getting together for a dance for the bride and groom and then all chaos went off. We heard about six shots and everybody ducked for cover."

Bartelson noted that Nadeau appeared to be targeting someone specific: "It looked like a target, that he was going right for this person. I feel terrible for him."

Sophie Flabouris's Testimony

Sophie Flabouris provided crucial details about the patrons' intervention: "We had just gathered around the dance floor. We were about to do a Greek smashing of the plates and throwing the dollar bills. The bride had just come up to me and gave me the plates to say, 'All right, you give this to my husband.' And all of a sudden we heard pop, pop, pop, pop, pop. Heard five shots."

Law Enforcement Response and Investigation

The response to the Sky Meadow Country Club shooting involved multiple agencies and demonstrated the coordinated effort of New Hampshire law enforcement. Officers from more than a dozen communities in New Hampshire and Massachusetts responded to the scene when emergency calls began coming in around 7:30 PM.

Swift Apprehension

Nashua Police Chief Kevin Rourke commended his officers for their rapid response, noting that Hunter Nadeau was located and apprehended within 30 minutes of officers arriving at the scene. The suspect was found in a nearby neighborhood and taken into custody without further incident.

Evidence Collection

Sources indicate that investigators were initially searching for a Toyota RAV4 that might have been connected to the shooter. A vehicle matching this description was observed being towed away from near the scene late Saturday night, suggesting its importance to the ongoing investigation.

Motive Investigation

Despite the swift arrest, determining Nadeau's motive remains a primary focus of the investigation. The lack of any known connection between the suspect and victim has complicated efforts to understand what drove this act of violence. Investigators continue to examine Nadeau's background, employment history, and any potential triggers that may have contributed to the shooting.

Legal Proceedings and Charges

Hunter Nadeau faces serious criminal charges in connection with the Sky Meadow Country Club shooting. The legal proceedings began swiftly following his arrest, with formal charges filed within 24 hours of the incident.

Current Charges

Nadeau has been charged with:

• Second-degree murder for the killing of Robert DeCesare
• Additional charges pending related to the other shooting victims

Attorney General Formella indicated that additional charges are likely to be filed as the investigation progresses, particularly concerning the two individuals who sustained gunshot wounds and survived the attack.

Arraignment Details

Nadeau was scheduled for arraignment at 1 p.m. on Monday, September 23, 2025, at the Ninth Circuit Court in Nashua. The arraignment represents the first formal court appearance where the charges will be read and the defendant will enter a plea.

Autopsy and Evidence Analysis

An autopsy on Robert DeCesare was scheduled for Monday, September 23, 2025, as part of the ongoing investigation. This examination will provide crucial evidence for the prosecution's case and help establish the exact cause of death and other forensic details.

Community Response and Support Services

The Sky Meadow Country Club shooting has had a profound impact on the Nashua community and the broader New Hampshire region. Local authorities, religious leaders, and support organizations have mobilized to provide assistance to those affected by the tragedy.

Immediate Support Services

Following the shooting, several support services were activated:

• Reunification Center: The Sheraton in Nashua served as a reunification center where families could reconnect with loved ones who were at the wedding
• Trauma Support: The Red Cross provided therapy dogs and counseling support to help individuals cope with the trauma
• Emergency Services: Nashua Fire Rescue assisted approximately 100 people from the scene, transporting them to safety at the Spit Brook Road firehouse

Official Statements

Governor Kelly Ayotte issued a statement expressing her condolences: "Joe and I are praying for the victims and their families of the tragic shooting last night at Sky Meadow Country Club. I want to thank Chief Rourke, the Nashua Police Department, and all of the first responders who reacted quickly to secure the scene and detain the suspect."

Venue Security and Safety Implications

The Sky Meadow Country Club shooting has raised important questions about security measures at hospitality venues, particularly those that host weddings and other large gatherings. The incident serves as a case study for venue operators, security professionals, and event planners nationwide.

Employee Background Considerations

The fact that the shooter was a former employee highlights several critical security considerations:

• Comprehensive background check procedures for all employees
• Regular monitoring and support for employee mental health
• Proper termination procedures and access control revocation
• Ongoing security assessments of former employees who may pose risks

Event Security Best Practices

This incident underscores the importance of implementing robust security measures at special events:

• Professional security personnel present during large gatherings
• Metal detection and bag screening procedures
• Emergency response protocols and staff training
• Clear evacuation routes and safety procedures
• Coordination with local law enforcement for high-risk events

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Hunter Nadeau?

Hunter Nadeau is a 23-year-old former employee of Sky Meadow Country Club who has been charged with second-degree murder in connection with the shooting that occurred on September 21, 2025. He worked at the country club for approximately one year before the incident.

What was the motive for the shooting?

The motive remains under investigation. There was no known connection between Hunter Nadeau and victim Robert DeCesare. While Nadeau made various statements during the shooting, investigators believe these were intended to create chaos rather than indicate a specific ideological motivation.

How many people were injured in the shooting?

One person (Robert DeCesare, 59) was killed. Two others sustained gunshot wounds, and at least four additional people suffered non-gunshot injuries including lacerations, broken bones, and trauma-related injuries while fleeing the scene.

How were patrons able to stop the shooter?

According to witness accounts, patrons at the venue acted heroically to subdue Nadeau. Multiple witnesses reported that someone struck the shooter with a chair, which helped prevent additional casualties and allowed others to escape safely.

What charges does Hunter Nadeau face?

Nadeau has been charged with second-degree murder for the death of Robert DeCesare. Additional charges are expected to be filed related to the other shooting victims and the overall incident.

What support is available for those affected?

The city of Nashua, Red Cross, and various community organizations have provided counseling services, reunification assistance, and trauma support for victims, witnesses, and their families. Mental health resources continue to be available for those impacted by the tragedy.

Conclusion: Lessons Learned and Moving Forward

The Sky Meadow Country Club shooting represents a tragic reminder of the vulnerability of public gatherings and the importance of comprehensive security planning. While the heroic actions of patrons prevented an even greater tragedy, the incident has forever changed the lives of those present and highlighted critical areas for improvement in venue security and workplace violence prevention.

As the legal proceedings continue and the investigation unfolds, it is essential that venue operators, security professionals, and communities across the nation learn from this tragedy. The implementation of enhanced security measures, improved employee screening procedures, and comprehensive emergency response protocols can help prevent similar incidents in the future.

The resilience of the Nashua community and the courage displayed by ordinary citizens during this crisis serve as powerful reminders of the human capacity for heroism in the face of unthinkable violence. As we remember Robert DeCesare and support his family, we must also commit to creating safer environments for all public gatherings and celebrations.