Sometimes doing things that seem harmless and ordinary can have unexpectedly disastrous consequences. That was sadly the case for Joseph Boutros. A college student at Salve Regina University in Rhode Island, Boutros tragically lost his life recently. He was doing something anyone might do. What caused his death is a cautionary tale for all of us.
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The Newport, Rhode Island Police Department Issued a Statement
According to the
statement, "On February 23, 2026, at about 7:20 p.m., Newport Police and Fire departments responded to a Bellevue Avenue parking lot to check on a person inside of a vehicle. When they arrived, they found Joseph Boutros, a 21-year-old Salve Regina University student unconscious inside a vehicle who was charging his cell phone. The vehicle was covered in snow and not running."Boutros was transported to the hospital where he was pronounced dead. Carbon monoxide poisoning was the cause.
The statement concluded, "This tragic incident was accidental and a reminder to be vigilant to keep exhaust pipes clear of snow and debris when vehicles are idling."
Boutros Was a Deeply Valued and Active Member of His School's Community
Per the New York Post, Boutros was a sophomore from Long Island, New York. He played on the Salve Regina football team. They issued a statement about the loss of their teammate and friend on
