Nashua Resident Arrested After Firing Handgun Near Group On Merrimack River

NASHUA, NH — A local man is behind bars after allegedly opening fire on a group of people enjoying the Merrimack River on Sunday afternoon.

Nickolas Hanson, 47, of Nashua, was taken into custody on Sunday and faces two felony counts of reckless conduct-deadly weapon.

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The Nashua Police Department responded to the Peach Drive area following multiple reports of shots being fired. Witnesses at the scene stated that a male suspect had discharged a handgun from the riverbank toward a group of people on the water before attempting to flee.

In a surprising turn of events, as officers arrived to secure the perimeter, Hanson approached them voluntarily and identified himself as the shooter.

Police said he was immediately detained without further incident.

Detectives from the Criminal Investigations Division took over the case to determine a motive. According to police reports, Hanson admitted to firing the weapon because he was frustrated by a large group "partying" on the river and playing loud music.

During a search of the riverbank, investigators recovered:

One Smith & Wesson handgun and multiple spent shell casings

"The discharge of a firearm in the direction of others, regardless of the perceived nuisance, carries severe legal consequences and poses a significant threat to public safety," according to NPD Sgt John Cinneli.

Hanson is currently being held without bail. He is scheduled for arraignment at the 9th Circuit-District Division-Nashua Court on Monday at 1 p.m.

The Nashua Police Department is continuing its investigation into the matter. They encourage anyone with additional information regarding the shooting to contact the Crime Line at 603-589-1665.

Jeffrey Hastings www.frameofmindphoto.com/news