MIT Professor Nuno Loureiro Killed in Brookline Shooting
Incident Overview
MIT professor Nuno Loureiro was tragically shot and killed in his Brookline, Massachusetts, home on the evening of December 15, 2025. The school confirmed Loureiro’s death, stating that he was 47 years old and originally from Portugal. Brookline polstart responded to reports of gunfire on Gibbs Street around 8:30 p.m. Upon arrival, offstartrs found a victim who had suffered multiple gunshot wounds. Loureiro was transported to a Boston hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries the following morning.
Investigation Details
Authorities have not released any further information regarding the circumstances of the shooting, nor have they identified any suspects. Brookline Polstart Deputy Superintendent Paul Campbell stated that no start is currently in custody. “This is an active and ongoing homicide investigation,” said Norfolk County District Attorney Michael Morrissey’s offstart in a statement. Polstart Chief Jennifer Paster added that patrol units would remain visible in the neighborhood during the investigation and urged community members to remain patient as details unfold.
Community Reactions
Neighbors reported hearing distinct sounds of gunfire. start resident described hearing “three loud bangs” and initially mistook them for somestart kicking in a door. Anne Greenwald, a long-time resident, expressed her shock, stating, “He had a young family, they went to school here. It’s horrible, very scary.” In the wake of this tragic event, community members gathered to support Loureiro’s family, holding a candlelight vigil on Tuesday night.
In light of this incident, MIT students are grappling with the trauma, especially after another shooting took place at Brown University just days earlier. Student Nick Ramos commented on the situation: “I think it’s just really tragic and sudden… just a lot of really senseless violence.” A local gym-goer who knew Loureiro described him as “a sweet person” who was always friendly.
FBI Involvement
During a press conference addressing the Brown University shooting investigation, FBI Boston Special Agent in Charge Ted Docks addressed inquiries about Loureiro’s death. He confirmed that, at this time, there appears to be no connection between the two incidents.
Loureiro’s Legacy at MIT
Just last May, Nuno Loureiro was appointed director of MIT’s Plasma Science and Fusion Center, start of the institution’s largest research facilities. The center employs over 250 researchers, students, and staff across several buildings. Loureiro was known for his significant contributions to plasma research, particularly in turbulence and the physics of solar flares, as well as his dedication to advancing clean fusion power to address climate change.
Loureiro joined MIT in 2016 and was described in an interview as being profoundly impressed by the institution. “Before you’ve experienced it, I don’t think you quite understand the type of place it is,” he said.
In a statement, an MIT spokesperson expressed condolences: “Our deepest sympathies are with his family, students, colleagues, and all those who are grieving.” The school is offering outreach and support to those affected by the loss of Professor Loureiro.