The tragic passing of Joseph Boutros, a promising offensive lineman from Salve Regina University, has left a profound void in the hearts of many on Long Island. Fondly remembered as a beacon of positivity, his untimely death during the recent historic blizzard has sparked an outpouring of grief and fond memories from those who knew him.

Mike Konsevitch, Boutros’ former coach, spoke warmly of him, saying, “Anyone at Connetquot who had the opportunity to teach or coach him would tell you he was just an extraordinary human being.”

Reflecting on Boutros’ nature, Konsevitch described him as “a happy-go-lucky person,” a sentiment echoed by many who crossed paths with the 2022 graduate.

The 21-year-old’s life was cut short in a tragic accident. Boutros succumbed to carbon monoxide poisoning while sitting in his car, charging his phone, unaware that snow had blocked the vehicle’s exhaust pipes. This unfortunate incident occurred as he sought refuge from power outages caused by the blizzard that had dumped an estimated 34 inches of snow near his home close to the Newport, R.I., university.

Coach Konsevitch also highlighted Boutros’ impressive dedication to his sport, noting that he was the kind of player coaches dream of having on their teams. His commitment and relentless effort to improve were qualities that distinguished him on and off the field.

He was the type of player any coach was lucky to have, according to Konsevitch, who praised the sweat equity Boutros put into improving day by day. 

“His junior year of high school, he struggled with football,” said Konsevitch, adding, “He may not have been the best player on the football field, but he was the best teammate.”

“Then he was staying in the weight room, working hard. His senior year, he became a better football player. He always worked hard at his craft.”

Boutros was also on the Nassau Community College team after playing for the Thunderbirds before taking his skills to Salve Regina. 

Excited to play with his close friend from high school on the Seahawks, wide receiver Alan Rodrigues, Boutros also shone academically. 

He made the fall 2025 dean’s list with a GPA of 3.94 in pursuit of a criminology degree.

When he took a break from succeeding on and off the field, it was always to pay it forward to his former T-Bird program, according to Boutros’ former coach.

“I would see him every summer when he would come back home,” Konsevitch said.

 “When we were practicing in the offseason, anytime he was home on a weekend we had a game, he would be on my sideline, watching, cheering us on.”

Boutros ended up as a mentor to many current athletes at the Suffolk County high school.

“He definitely would talk to some kids, be helpful, give them advice that maybe he learned along the way playing college football,” said Konsevitch.

“He was a positive role model. He was always positive … always smiling.”