MIT professor Nuno Loureiro was tragically shot and killed in his home on Gibbs Street in Brookline, Massachusetts, on Monday night, December 15, 2025. The 47-year-old, who was originally from Portugal, was a prominent figure in the field of nuclear science and engineering. The Massachusetts Institute of Technology confirmed the heartbreaking news, expressing deep condolences to his family, friends, and students.
Brookline police reported that they received a call regarding gunfire at approximately 8:30 p.m. Upon arrival, officers found Loureiro with multiple gunshot wounds. He was rushed to a Boston hospital, but unfortunately succumbed to his injuries early the following morning. Authorities have initiated an active homicide investigation, with no suspects currently in custody.
Witnesses in the neighborhood reported hearing distinct sounds resembling gunfire. One anonymous neighbor recounted hearing “three loud bangs,” initially mistaking them for a disturbance within his own apartment. Another longtime resident, Anne Greenwald, shared her shock and concern, noting that Loureiro and his young family were well-integrated into the local community.
Loureiro, who was appointed as the director of MIT’s Plasma Science and Fusion Center last May, contributed significantly to research on plasma phenomena, including solar turbulence and efforts to develop clean fusion energy as a solution to climate change. He had been part of MIT since 2016 and often expressed his admiration for the institution, emphasizing the unique experience it offered.
The school is actively engaging with its community to provide support to those affected by this tragic loss, reinforcing its commitment to care for its members during this difficult time. Loureiro’s legacy in the scientific community will be deeply remembered, as his work had profound implications for both academic research and future energy solutions.