Veterinarian found dead in snow-wedged mobile animal care van in Queens reportedly worked seven days a week, according to his wife.

A tragic incident occurred in Queens, New York, where a devoted veterinarian was found dead inside a mobile veterinary van that was trapped in snow. Ashraf Hussein, 56, was discovered unresponsive in the van near the intersection of 65th Avenue and Parsons Boulevard on Sunday morning at approximately 9:25 AM. Alongside him, a small white dog, which he had been operating on to remove a mass from its paw, also died.

Hussein’s wife, Marwa Mansour, shared her grief about her husband’s dedication to his profession, revealing that he worked tirelessly, often putting in hours seven days a week. She described his passion for animals, noting that his commitment drove him to provide care even in challenging weather conditions. This dedication was not just a job for Hussein; it was a calling shaped by his love for animals and a desire to help them.

In a concerning development during the same incident, Garo Alexanian, the 73-year-old owner of the mobile veterinary clinic, was found unconscious by neighbors who noticed his distress and called for help. Reports suggest that Alexanian and Hussein may have been trapped inside the van for approximately four hours. Authorities are investigating the possibility that they were overwhelmed by fumes due to inadequate ventilation, compounded by heavy snow blocking the exhaust pipe.

Hussein had been associated with the mobile clinic for over 15 years and had a close working relationship with Alexanian. He worked at Aadobe Animal Hospital in Staten Island and often rushed to help Alexanian whenever he received a call, indicating a significant level of commitment to both his patients and colleagues. His wife noted that on many occasions, he would complete his shifts at the animal hospital before heading directly to the mobile clinic in Queens.

The family of Hussein is left grappling with the aftermath of this loss, expressing their devastation and shock. Mansour disclosed that her husband was born in Asyut, Egypt, before relocating to the United States in the 1990s. In addition to his love for veterinary work, he was an avid chess player and a beloved figure among his family and friends.

While the city’s Medical Examiner is set to conduct an autopsy to ascertain the cause of death, Hussein’s family faces a difficult decision regarding his final resting place. His family in Egypt wishes to repatriate his body; however, his sons prefer to inter him in New York to facilitate regular visits to his grave.

In this heartbreaking situation, Hussein is remembered not just as a dedicated veterinarian, but as a loving husband and father whose kindness and passion touched many lives.