4 Found Dead in Wakefield, New Hampshire

On Christmas Day, a tragic incident unfolded in the small town of Wakefield, NH, as four adults lost their lives to suspected carbon monoxide poisoning, underscoring the silent peril lurking within many homes.

At a Glance

Four adults perished from suspected carbon monoxide poisoning in Wakefield, NH.
The incident occurred at a residence on Province Lake Road.
An investigation centers on the home’s gas heating system and lack of working CO detectors.
Autopsies are scheduled to confirm the cause of death.

Tragedy Strikes Wakefield

On December 25, authorities found four adults unresponsive in a home on Province Lake Road, Wakefield, NH. The victims, identified as Matthew Goldstein, aged 52, Lyla Goldstein, 54, Valerie Goldstein, 22, and Violet Goldstein, 19, were suspected to have died from carbon monoxide poisoning. The chilling discovery was made after the victims failed to show up at a family gathering, prompting a welfare check.

The investigation centers on the home’s gas heating system, with the lack of working carbon monoxide detectors raising troubling questions. As officials express concern, the incident highlights the critical yet often overlooked necessity of having functional CO detectors in every household.

Four people were found dead on Christmas Day in Wakefield, New Hampshire from suspected carbon monoxide poisoning, authorities said. https://t.co/07A2H0KBOk

— CBS News (@CBSNews) December 26, 2024

Carbon Monoxide Dangers

Carbon monoxide is odorless and colorless, making it undetectable without specialized alarms. This attribute compounds the danger it poses to unsuspecting individuals. Symptoms often mimic the flu, complicating early detection. State Fire Marshal Sean Toomey emphasized, “While the investigation remains active and ongoing, at this time, investigators believe the victims died as a result of carbon monoxide poisoning.”

In light of this tragedy, the CDC recommends installing CO detectors near sleeping areas to ensure early warning capabilities. Incorporating these life-saving devices is crucial, especially during the colder months, when heating systems are used more frequently.

Community and Official Reactions

The Wakefield community, reeling from the Christmas Day tragedy, has urged residents to verify the functionality of their carbon monoxide alarms. Ed Arcand, a neighbor, reflected on the incident’s impact, stating, “It’s so close to us. You go by that house all the time. Now this happens. We’ll never be able to see it a different way anymore.”

The Brookline community also mourns the loss of one of its own. Linus Guillory Jr. expressed profound sorrow, sharing, “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.” The outpouring of grief serves as a somber reminder of the unseen hazards present in every household and the need for diligence in prevention.