Salve Regina student dies from carbon monoxide during Blizzard of ’26

NEWPORT, R.I. — A Salve Regina University student has died after being overcome by carbon monoxide while sitting in a vehicle during Monday night’s blizzard conditions on campus.

Newport police say 21-year-old Joseph Boutros was found unresponsive inside a parked vehicle outside the Young Building around 7:20 p.m. First responders determined the vehicle’s exhaust pipe had become blocked by heavy snow while the car was running, causing carbon monoxide to accumulate inside.

Boutros was transported to the hospital, where he was later pronounced dead. Authorities say the incident appears accidental.

The university confirmed Boutros was a member of the Salve Regina football team and originally from Bohemia, New York. In a statement, university president Dr. Kelli J. Armstrong called his death a tragic loss for the campus community.

Officials are reminding the public to ensure vehicle exhaust pipes remain clear of snow and debris whenever a car is running, particularly during and after major winter storms.

Boutros is being remembered by classmates, teammates, and faculty as the Salve community mourns his loss.