DIII football player dies of carbon monoxide poisoning

Field Level Media|published: Wed 25th February, 13:12 2026

Snow-covered cars in downtown Wilmington, Del., on Jan. 26, 2026.

A football player at Rhode Island's Division III Salve Regina was found unresponsive in his car during Monday's historic blizzard and later died at a hospital, with his passing attributed to carbon monoxide poisoning.

Joseph Boutros, 21, was found in a snow-covered vehicle Monday night while charging his cell phone, police in Newport, R.I., said in a statement released Tuesday.

He was taken to the emergency room at Newport Hospital and pronounced dead Monday night.

A record 34 inches fell in Newport during the storm, and the tailpipe of his car was blocked by snow.

"This tragic incident was accidental and a reminder to be vigilant to keep exhaust pipes clear of snow and debris when vehicles are idling," the police news release said.

Boutros was an offensive lineman from Bohemia, N.Y., on Long Island.

"The Salve Football family mourns the passing of Joseph Boutros," the university said in a statement. "His contagious smile, selfless spirit, and the way he showed up for his brothers every day made our program better in every way."

--Field Level Media

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