In a tragic incident amid unprecedented snowfall, a 21-year-old college student from Rhode Island has died from carbon monoxide poisoning after being found unconscious in his vehicle. The Newport Police Department reported the incident occurred during a historic blizzard that blanketed the city with over 34 inches of snow within a single day, marking the heaviest snowfall on record for Newport.
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On the evening of 23rd February, emergency services were alerted to a vehicle parked in a local parking lot where a person was unresponsive. Upon arrival at approximately 7:20 p.m., police and fire personnel discovered Joseph Boutros slumped inside his stationary car, which was buried under snow. At the time, he was charging his mobile phone, and the car was not operating.
Joseph Boutros was a student at Salve Regina University, where he was enrolled in a programme specialising in criminal justice and criminology. He was also a member of the university’s football team, serving as an offensive lineman. Following the discovery, Boutros was quickly transported to Newport Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead due to the effects of carbon monoxide poisoning.
The Newport Police Department emphasised the tragic nature of the incident, labelling it an accident and offering advice for future safety. They urged the public to remain vigilant about keeping vehicle exhaust pipes clear of snow and debris, especially during such severe weather conditions that can lead to dangerous situations.
In their announcement regarding the record snowfall, Newport officials encouraged residents to remain indoors as efforts were mobilised for a “multiday recovery and cleanup event” to manage the aftermath of the storm. Images showcasing the snow-covered streets were shared on the city’s official social media platforms as a reminder of the challenges posed by the sudden weather change.
The Mayo Clinic provides guidance on carbon monoxide poisoning, explaining that it occurs when carbon monoxide accumulates in the bloodstream, displacing oxygen in the red blood cells and potentially causing severe tissue damage or death. Such incidents are particularly prevalent during cold weather when people may leave their vehicles running in enclosed or snowy spaces without proper ventilation.
Salve Regina University has also released a statement concerning Boutros’ untimely death, expressing deep sorrow for the loss. University President Kelli J. Armstrong extended condolences to Boutros’ family, friends, teammates, and the wider community, indicating that he will be sorely missed and remembered for his spirit and contributions.
The football team at Salve Regina University shared their grief through a heartfelt message, highlighting Boutros’ impactful presence within the programme. They recalled his infectious smile, his commitment to his teammates, and how his dedication enhanced their collective experience; they affirmed that his legacy would remain an integral part of their community.
As Newport continues to grapple with the challenges presented by the historic snowfall and mourns the tragic loss of a young life, this incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers associated with winter weather conditions. The community’s focus is now on recovery and providing support to those affected by this heartbreaking event.