A FAMILY of four tragically found dead in their home on Christmas Day have been pictured.
The Goldstein family tragedy unfolded when the bodies of eighth-grade teacher Matthew Goldstein, 52, his wife Lyla, 54, and their daughters Valerie, 22, and Violet, 19, were found in their residence following a suspected poisoning incident.
Matthew’s cause of death was found to be carbon monoxide poisoning, while the cause and death of the other three are still pending.
Family members called police after the four didn’t arrive as expected for a Christmas dinner.
They were found dead inside their house in Wakefield, New Hampshire just after 4:20 pm.
Investigators said there were no carbon monoxide detectors inside the house.
Tributes have been paid to Matthew, who was a teacher at Brookline Public Schools.
Expressing profound sadness, Brookline Public Schools Superintendent Linus Guillory released a statement on December 26, mourning the loss of Mr. Matt Goldstein, a highly esteemed educator and cherished member of the 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.”
Goldstein taught eighth-grade math and health while he also led the math league and the school’s LGBTQ+ student support group.
He was also a member of the Newton Theater Company and performed in several community productions, the company’s founder said.
Lyla Goldstein had worked at Microsoft for the past 15 years, according to family sources.
New Hampshire State Fire Marshal Sean Toomey spoke out following the news.
Reflecting on the devastating event, it was noted that the occurrence compounded the challenges of a year marked by significant carbon monoxide-related deaths and fire casualties in the region.
“I really hope to make it through the holidays without another death.
“And unfortunately, I’m standing before you today with four more deaths that appear to be carbon monoxide-related.”
Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas that kills more than 400 Americans per year, according to the Centers for Disease Control.
Toomey added that the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning can be similar to the flu, making them harder to recognize around this time of year.
Common causes of carbon monoxide poisoning:
- Faulty boilers, cookers and heaters
- Faulty air conditioning units
- Blocked car exhausts
- Blocked chimneys
- Burning fuel in an enclosed space (e.g. running a car or using a BBQ inside a garage)
- Paint fumes
- Smoking shisha pipes indoors
Neighbors have spoken out about their shock over the news.
“It’s just, my deepest sympathy,” one neighbor told local ABC affiliate WMUR.
“You know, it’s a terrible tragedy. How can you not feel anything?
“It’s so sad, especially around the holidays.”
