A 21-year-old college student tragically lost his life due to accidental carbon monoxide poisoning during a historic snowstorm that battered Rhode Island earlier this week.
According to the Newport Police Department, officers and fire personnel responded around 7:20 p.m. on February 23 to a report of a person inside a vehicle in a parking lot. Upon arrival, they found Joseph Boutros unconscious in a snow-covered car. The vehicle was not running at the time.
Boutros was transported by emergency responders to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead. Authorities confirmed that the cause of death was carbon monoxide poisoning.
Historic snowfall grips Newpor
The City of Newport recorded over 34 inches of snow within 24 hours, marking the largest snowfall in its history. Residents had been urged to remain indoors as officials began a multi-day recovery and clean-up effort.
Police described the incident as accidental and issued a reminder to the public to ensure vehicle exhaust pipes are kept clear of snow and debris when cars are idling, as blocked exhaust systems can lead to deadly carbon monoxide build-up.
University community mourns loss
Boutros was a student at Salve Regina University, where he was studying criminal justice and criminology. He was also an offensive lineman on the university’s football team.
University President Kelli J. Armstrong expressed deep sorrow, stating that the campus community mourns the tragic loss. The football team also paid tribute, remembering him for his positive spirit and dedication.
Carbon monoxide poisoning occurs when the gas builds up in the bloodstream, replacing oxygen and potentially leading to severe tissue damage or death. The incident serves as a solemn reminder of the hidden dangers that extreme weather conditions can pose.