University student dies of carbon monoxide poisoning during Rhode Island blizzard

NEWPORT, Rhode Island — A college student in Rhode Island died Monday from accidental carbon monoxide poisoning during the winter storm that brought record-breaking snow to the region, according to local police. 

First responders were called to check on a person who was inside a vehicle in a parking lot Monday night, according to Newport police.  

When police and fire officials arrived at the scene, they found 21-year-old Joseph Boutros of New York unconscious inside the vehicle, which was covered in snow and was no longer running.

Boutros, a sophomore at Salve Regina University, was apparently trying to charge his cellphone in the car because the school did not have power at that time. 

The student was brought to a nearby hospital where he was pronounced dead as a result of carbon monoxide poisoning. 

Police called it a tragic accident and urged people to stay vigilant about the risks of carbon monoxide poisoning, including keeping exhaust pipes clear of snow and debris when vehicles are idling. 

Boutros was on the school’s football team and was studying criminal justice and criminology, according to his school athletics bio.

Salve Regina University President Kelli J. Armstrong issued a statement following news of Boutros’ death.  

“Our community mourns this tragic loss. Our hearts ache with Joseph’s family, teammates, faculty, coaches, friends and all who loved him. May perpetual light shine upon him and may he rest in peace,” Armstrong said. 

Carbon monoxide is an odorless colorless gas that can be deadly. Unintentional carbon monoxide poisoning sends more than 100,000 Americans to the emergency room, hospitalizes more than 14,000 patients, and kills more than 400 people each year, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The most common symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning may include headache, dizziness, weakness, upset stomach, vomiting, chest pain and confusion.