RI College Student Dies from Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Joseph Boutros, 21, was found unconscious in his running vehicle during a snowstorm.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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A 21-year-old Salve Regina University student, Joseph Boutros, died on Monday due to carbon monoxide poisoning after being found unconscious in his running vehicle during a snowstorm in Newport, Rhode Island. The vehicle's exhaust pipe was embedded in the snow, causing the deadly buildup of carbon monoxide.

Why it matters

This tragic incident highlights the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning and the importance of being vigilant about keeping vehicle exhaust pipes clear of snow and debris, especially during severe winter weather conditions when people may be tempted to idle their cars to charge devices or stay warm.

The details

Police and fire crews were called to a parking lot on Monday evening where they found Boutros unconscious inside his running vehicle. The vehicle was covered in snow, and the exhaust pipe was embedded, preventing the carbon monoxide from properly venting. Boutros was transported to the hospital but was pronounced dead shortly after due to the carbon monoxide poisoning.

  • On Monday, February 25, 2026, Newport received 20 inches of snow.
  • At around 7:20 p.m. on Monday, police and fire were called to the parking lot.

The players

Joseph Boutros

A 21-year-old student at Salve Regina University.

Newport Police Capt. Joseph Carroll

Issued a statement reminding people to keep exhaust pipes clear during idling.

Kelli J. Armstrong

The president of Salve Regina University, who expressed condolences over Boutros' tragic death.

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What they’re saying

“This tragic incident was accidental and a reminder to be vigilant to keep exhaust pipes clear of snow and debris when vehicles are idling.”

— Newport Police Capt. Joseph Carroll (wesh.com)

“Our community mourns this tragic loss. Our hearts ache with Joseph's family, teammates, faculty, coaches, friends and all who loved him.”

— Kelli J. Armstrong, President, Salve Regina University (wesh.com)

What’s next

The Newport Police Department is continuing to investigate the incident to determine the exact cause of death.

The takeaway

This heartbreaking tragedy serves as a crucial reminder for all drivers to be extremely cautious about clearing snow and debris from vehicle exhaust pipes, especially during severe winter weather, to prevent the deadly buildup of carbon monoxide that can occur when a car is left idling.