MIT Scientist Fatally Shot in Massachusetts Home

A homicide investigation is underway after Nuno F.G. Loureiro, a distinguished theoretical physicist and fusion scientist from Portugal, was found fatally shot at his residence in Brookline, Massachusetts. Loureiro, 47, was discovered on the evening of December 15 and later pronounced deceased on December 16. Law enforcement officials confirmed that the investigation is active, but no suspects have been apprehended. Authorities have explicitly stated that this tragic event does not appear to be connected to the recent shooting incident at Brown University.

Loureiro, who joined MIT in 2016, was a highly respected figure in his field. He served as the deputy director and, as of 2024, the director of MIT's Plasma Science and Fusion Center, leading a large team of researchers. His academic journey began in Portugal and continued with postgraduate studies in London before his impactful career at MIT, where his research garnered significant awards. Colleagues remembered him not only as a brilliant scientist but also as a compassionate mentor and colleague.