MIT Physicist Nuno Loureiro Fatally Shot in Brookline Home - No Link to Brown University Shooting, Authorities Say

Brookline, Massachusetts — The investigation into the fatal shooting of prominent MIT professor Nuno F.G. Loureiro continued Wednesday with no arrests announced, as authorities and the academic community grappled with the loss of a leading figure in plasma physics and nuclear fusion research.

Loureiro, 47, a Portuguese-born theoretical physicist and director of MIT's Plasma Science and Fusion Center, was found suffering from multiple gunshot wounds in the foyer of his Gibbs Street residence shortly after 8:30 p.m. on Monday, December 15.

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Neighbors reported hearing several gunshots, and Loureiro was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries early Tuesday morning.

Police have described the incident as a targeted homicide but have not identified any suspects or motive.

Sources familiar with the probe told media outlets that investigators have no obvious leads or theories at this stage.

Brookline police have increased patrols in the Gibbs Street neighborhood, deploying dedicated marked and unmarked units for reassurance.

On Tuesday evening, neighbors, colleagues, and friends gathered outside the home for a candlelight vigil, leaving flowers and lights in memory of Loureiro, whom residents described as a kind and helpful family man.

MIT President Sally Kornbluth called the death a "shocking loss," while colleagues praised Loureiro's brilliance, mentorship, and compassionate leadership.

The Portuguese government and U.S. Ambassador to Portugal also expressed condolences, highlighting his contributions to science.

No Connection to Brown University Shooting

The killing comes just days after a separate mass shooting at Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island—approximately 50 miles away—on December 13, during final exams, where two students were killed and several others injured.

The Brown gunman remains at large, with the FBI releasing updated video timelines and seeking public assistance.

Authorities have explicitly ruled out any link between the two incidents. FBI Boston Special Agent in Charge Ted Docks stated there "seems to be no connection," a assessment echoed by senior law enforcement sources briefed on both cases.

While initial proximity in timing and region raised questions, investigators found no evidence tying the events together.

As both probes continue, New England universities have heightened security measures amid heightened concerns over campus and community safety. MIT has offered counseling resources to those affected by Loureiro's death. 17GEN4.com