4 Adults Discovered Dead on Christmas Day

A Christmas Day tragedy struck Wakefield, New Hampshire, as four adults were found dead in their home due to suspected carbon monoxide poisoning.

At a Glance

Four people died due to suspected carbon monoxide poisoning in Wakefield.
The investigation focuses on a malfunctioning gas heating system.
The victims were identified as the Goldstein family from Massachusetts.
The lack of functional carbon monoxide detectors was highlighted.

Tragic Christmas Discovery

The Wakefield Police Department, together with the State Fire Marshal, discovered the bodies of four adults during a welfare check on Christmas Day. Family members reported concern when the victims did not attend a family gathering. Upon investigation, authorities suspect carbon monoxide poisoning as the cause of death.

Carbon monoxide, a silent killer, is both undetectable and scentless. This incident underscores the dire consequences of insufficient preventive measures. Adding to the heartbreak is knowing this tragedy occurred on a day meant for family celebrations.

WAKEFIELD, N.H.—Four people died in a New Hampshire home on Christmas Day due to suspected carbon monoxide poisoning, authorities said.

Police were called to the house in the town of Wakefield around 4:20 p.m. for a welfare check, said New Hampshire State Fire Marshal Sean…

— The Epoch Times (@EpochTimes) December 26, 2024

Details of the Victims

The deceased were Matthew Goldstein, his wife Lyla, and their daughters, Valerie and Violet, all residents of Newton, Massachusetts. Matt Goldstein, a respected teacher at Edith C. Baker School in Chestnut Hill, leaves behind a legacy of educating and mentoring young minds.

“We are deeply heartbroken to learn of the passing of Mr. Matt Goldstein, an exceptional educator and a beloved member of our PSB and Baker School Community” Brookline Public Schools superintendent Linus Guillory Jr. said.

Investigation and Prevention

The police suspect that a faulty gas heating system may have been responsible for the carbon monoxide leak. Authorities reported no carbon monoxide detectors were present in the home. These detectors are vital for early detection and prevention of such tragic outcomes.

The State Fire Marshal’s Office and community leaders are rallying for increased public awareness about the risks of carbon monoxide. They emphasize regular maintenance and testing of both heating systems and detection devices.