Family of four identified in apparent carbon monoxide poisoning in New Hampshire

WAKEFIELD, N.H. (WLNE) — The four individuals found dead inside a New Hampshire home on Christmas Day were identified as a family from Newton, Mass. by officials on Friday.

All were suspected to have died from carbon monoxide poisoning.

Matthew Goldstein, 52, Lyla Goldstein, 54, Valerie Goldstein, 22, and Violet Goldstein, 19, all from Newton, were found dead after a welfare check was dispatched to a home in Wakefield.

Family members called police after the four did not show up to a Christmas gathering.

According to officials, Matthew Goldstein’s cause of death was carbon monoxide poisoning.

The exact cause of death of Lyla, Valerie and Violet remained pending as of Friday night.

The Goldstein family was found dead in their home on Dec. 25, 2024.

Investigators found a faulty heating system leaking carbon monoxide inside the residence.

Violet Goldstein was a first-year student at the Rhode Island School of Design in Providence.

RISD President Crystal Williams described the situation as an “unimaginable loss,” adding counseling and psychological services will be available for students and staff even while the campus is closed for the winter break.

Matthew Goldstein was a Brookline Public Schools teacher, and Superintendent Linus J. Guillory released the following statement: 

“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.  Mr. Goldstein’s dedication to inspiring students and shaping young minds has left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing him. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, colleagues and students during this profoundly difficult time.  We are committed to providing the support and resources needed for the Baker School Community as we grieve this tremendous loss together.”

New Hampshire officials said that, during the preliminary investigation, it was learned that the victims were expected to attend a holiday event.

When they did not show up at the event, family members contacted local authorities and requested a welfare check, ultimately leading to the discovery of the victims.

No carbon monoxide alarms were found in the home.

“Our message continues to be the need to have carbon monoxide alarms in everybody’s homes,” New Hampshire State Fire Marshal Sean Toomey said. “We urge everyone to reach out to your friends and neighbors and loved ones to make sure they have these important devices in their homes.”

The Rhode Island State Fire Marshal says property owners are responsible for ensuring there are working alarms inside their buildings.

Officials recommend testing alarms monthly and replacing batteries yearly.

Carbon monoxide detectors should be replaced every seven years from the date of manufacture, unless the manufacturer specifically says otherwise.