Tragic Loss: Student Dies from Carbon Monoxide During Historic Newport Blizzard
February 25, 2026
The incident occurred during a blizzard that set historic snowfall records in the area, with ongoing updates and statements being sought from Salve Regina University and local authorities.
Boutros was transported by Newport police and fire personnel to Newport Hospital, where he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
National Weather Service reported the nor’easter dumped substantial snow on the region, with Newport noting around 34 inches of accumulation and nearby locations lighter but still significant.
A Salve Regina University student, 21-year-old Joseph Boutros, died of carbon monoxide poisoning after his running car, buried in snow, was left idling in a Newport, Rhode Island parking lot.
Police described the death as accidental and urged residents to keep exhaust pipes clear of snow and debris when vehicles are idling.
Newport recorded more than 34 inches of snow in 24 hours, the city’s largest single-day snowfall on record, prompting residents to stay home to support a multi-day recovery.
In addition to Newport, the area faced widespread storm impacts, including cleanup and travel disruptions as authorities urge caution.
Salve Regina University has not released many details yet, and officials say they will handle information with privacy and respect.
The university’s athletics site highlights Boutros’s role on the football team and his academic focus, underscoring his character and contributions to the program.
Police responded to a Bellevue parking lot around 7:20 p.m. on Monday to check on a person inside a vehicle, initiating the sequence of events.
Context notes indicate this event follows historic snowfall records, with prior records for total and single-day snowfall standing at 28.6 inches (1978) and 19 inches (1996), respectively.
The story has been updated as new information from police becomes available.
Summary based on 18 sources
Get a daily email with more US News stories
Sources

The Providence Journal • Feb 24, 2026
College student dies of carbon monoxide poisoning amid blizzard
The Boston Globe • Feb 24, 2026
R.I. college student dies of carbon monoxide poisoning, police say
