Witness states US shooting suspect yelled ‘Free Palestine’

A man was fatally shot and several individuals were injured at a wedding event in Nashua, New Hampshire, authorities have reported.

One man died and several others sustained injuries on Saturday evening when a shooter opened fire at a country club in Nashua, New Hampshire. A witness claimed the assailant yelled “Free Palestine.”

Police officers responded to emergency calls from the Sky Meadow Country Club following reports of gunfire. Initial findings indicate that a single adult male entered the premises and discharged multiple shots, according to a statement from Attorney General John M. Formella and Nashua Police Chief Kevin Rourke.

The suspect was apprehended at the scene, and law enforcement stated there was no continuing threat to the public. Authorities confirmed via video surveillance that early reports of two shooters were inaccurate.

Tom Bartelson, a witness who was attending a wedding at the club, informed local broadcaster WHDH that he heard approximately six shots but initially did not understand the sound. Bartelson added that the gunman appeared to target a specific individual and shouted “the children are safe” and “free Palestine.”

When questioned about a potential motive, New Hampshire Assistant Attorney General Peter Hinckley declined to speculate, stating, “We are focusing on the facts and information we gather … and once we have a motive, we can share it.”

Nashua Mayor Jim Donchess described the incident as a “tragedy,” remarking, “One loss of life is still too many.”

The conflict between Israel and Hamas has heightened tensions in the US, where both pro-Palestinian and pro-Israeli groups have frequently organized demonstrations. These events have sometimes led to confrontations, including skirmishes on university campuses and clashes between protesters in major cities.