Rhode Island College Student Dies From Carbon Monoxide While Charging Phone In Car

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A 21-year-old Salve Regina University student in Rhode Island died from carbon monoxide poisoning after he tried to charge his phone in his car during a major snowstorm that knocked out power in the area. First responders found Joseph Boutros unresponsive in his vehicle, where the exhaust pipe was obstructed by snow. Boutros' death is a tragic reminder of the silent and deadly risks of carbon monoxide exposure, especially common during winter power outages when people use vehicles or other heating sources improperly.

Why it matters

Carbon monoxide poisoning is a leading cause of accidental deaths in the U.S., with the risk spiking during the winter months when people are more likely to use furnaces, heaters, and vehicles without proper ventilation. Boutros' death highlights the need for greater public awareness about this silent killer, as well as the importance of taking safety precautions during severe winter storms and power outages.

The details

Police said Boutros told a fellow student he was using his car to charge his phone after the storm knocked out power in the area. However, the vehicle's exhaust pipe was obstructed by snow, causing a buildup of deadly carbon monoxide inside the car. First responders found Boutros unresponsive and he was later pronounced dead at the scene from carbon monoxide poisoning, which authorities ruled as accidental.

• On Monday, February 24, 2026, Boutros was found unresponsive in his car in Newport, Rhode Island.
• The area was experiencing a major snowstorm and widespread power outages at the time of the incident.

What they’re saying

What’s next

Authorities are investigating the incident and reminding the public about the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning, especially during winter storms and power outages. The university is providing support services to the campus community in the wake of Boutros' tragic death.