Joseph Boutros, a 21-year-old sophomore offensive lineman at Salve Regina University, tragically died on Feb. 23 after suffering carbon monoxide poisoning during a severe winter storm.
Boutros’ mother, Annemarie Tocco, a longtime community nurse, is now receiving widespread support from friends, neighbors, and local residents.
According to authorities, the incident occurred when Boutros’ dorm lost power amid the storm.
Attempting to charge his phone, he went to his car, which was heavily covered in snow. While inside, he was overcome by carbon monoxide, a colorless, odorless gas that can be lethal in confined spaces when an exhaust pipe is blocked.
Emergency responders found him unresponsive and transported him to Newport Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. Newport police described the death as accidental, noting that snow likely obstructed the vehicle’s exhaust system.
Boutros was a criminal justice and criminology major at Salve Regina and had been active in the university’s football program.
Teammates, classmates, and coaches remembered him as dedicated on and off the field. Friends in Bohemia, New York, the family’s hometown, described the loss as sudden and heartbreaking.
In response to the tragedy, a GoFundMe campaign titled “Support for Annemarie after Joseph’s Tragic Loss” was created by Ovadia Choueka.
The fundraiser aims to help cover funeral expenses and provide support for Annemarie Tocco and her family during this difficult time.
Organizers highlight that Annemarie has spent her life caring for others as a nurse and now faces unexpected financial and emotional burdens following the death of her son.
The campaign has raised at least $13,000, with contributions coming from friends, neighbors, colleagues, and community members who want to show support.
The fundraiser’s message details the circumstances leading to Boutros’ death: during the storm, the dormitory lost power, prompting him to use his car to charge his phone.
While in the vehicle, he was overcome by carbon monoxide. The post emphasizes that any contribution, no matter the size, will help Annemarie and her family manage expenses and offer comfort during their time of grief.
Local authorities and Salve Regina University have acknowledged the incident and offered condolences. University representatives indicated that support services are available for students and staff affected by the tragedy.
One individual wrote, “Schools and campuses need to put information out there about the dangers of snow blocking exhausts.”
Another Parent added, “Horrific. Heartbreaking for his family. Not everyone especially young people realize there muffler is blocked by the snow.”
Police and fire departments in Newport reported responding to the scene at approximately 7:20 p.m., finding the vehicle snow-covered and Boutros unresponsive.
The vehicle was not running when responders arrived, but investigators believe that exhaust gases accumulated while the engine had briefly operated, resulting in lethal carbon monoxide exposure.
Joseph Boutros’ death occurred amid a historic blizzard that dropped more than 34 inches of snow in Newport, creating dangerous conditions for residents and travelers.
First responders and public-safety officials have emphasized the risks of running vehicles or generators in enclosed or snow-obstructed areas during such weather events.
The GoFundMe campaign continues to accept donations, which will be used primarily for funeral arrangements and related expenses.
Organizers encourage members of the public to contribute or share the fundraiser to support the family. Friends, neighbors, and community members have expressed sympathy and contributed messages of support alongside financial assistance.
This article is based on local reporting, official statements from Newport authorities, and information provided on the family’s GoFundMe page. The family has requested privacy while arranging funeral services and mourning the loss of Joseph Boutros.
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