College Student from Long Island Dies from Carbon Monoxide Poisoning During Blizzard

Joseph Boutros was charging his phone in a running car covered in snow when he was found unconscious and later pronounced dead.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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A 21-year-old college student from Long Island, Joseph Boutros, died of carbon monoxide poisoning after charging his phone in a running car during a historic blizzard in Newport, Rhode Island. Boutros, a sophomore and offensive lineman on Salve Regina University's football team, was found unconscious in the vehicle and later pronounced dead at a local hospital.

Why it matters

This tragic incident highlights the dangers of running a vehicle in heavy snow conditions, as the buildup of snow can block exhaust pipes and lead to carbon monoxide poisoning. It serves as a reminder for people to be cautious when using their cars during extreme winter weather events.

The details

According to police, Boutros was charging his phone in a running car that was covered in heavy snow when he was found unconscious. He was rushed to the hospital but pronounced dead shortly after due to carbon monoxide poisoning. Boutros was a student at Salve Regina University, where he played on the football team as an offensive lineman.

  • On Monday evening, police checked on a person inside a vehicle in a parking lot.
  • Boutros was found unconscious and later pronounced dead at the hospital.

The players

Joseph Boutros

A 21-year-old college student from Bohemia in Suffolk County, Long Island, who was a sophomore and offensive lineman on Salve Regina University's football team.

Salve Regina University

The university Boutros attended, where he was a student and played on the football team.

Newport Police Department

The police department that responded to the incident and investigated Boutros' death.

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What they’re saying

“The Salve Football family mourns the passing of Joseph Boutros. His contagious smile, selfless spirit, and the way he showed up for his brothers every day made our program better in every way.”

— Salve Regina Football (Social media)

The takeaway

This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of being vigilant about carbon monoxide poisoning risks, especially during extreme winter weather when running a vehicle. It highlights the need for greater public awareness and education around the dangers of idling cars in heavy snow conditions.