On Saturday, February 1, 2026, Dr. Ashraf Hussein, a 57-year-old veterinarian known for his dedicated service to the New York City community, tragically lost his life. His lifeless body was discovered inside of a mobile veterinary van parked in a Flushing neighborhood of Queens, New York.
The mobile clinic van had been wedged in between a snowbank following the recent heavy snowfall, and it is believed the snow obstructed the van’s exhaust and generator systems which caused the lethal fumes to build up inside the vehicle.
Carbon monoxide is colorless, odorless and tasteless, making it impossible to detect with human senses. To protect against carbon monoxide, it is recommended to install CO detectors.
Dr. Hussein had been performing medical care on a small white dog’s paw. Tragically, the dog died also.
A 73-year-old colleague, identified as Garo Alexanian, the veterinarian who owns the van, remains in the hospital recovering from a head injury. He collapsed as well, but managed to crawl out of the van after regaining consciousness.
At the Aadobe Animal Hospital in Staten Island where Dr. Hussein had been a colleague, a Facebook post expressed the profound sadness of losing a veterinarian who dedicated his life to helping animals.
For many of you, Dr. Hussein was more than a veterinarian, he was a trusted caregiver, a compassionate advocate for animals, and a gentle presence who brought comfort and reassurance to both you and your beloved pets. His dedication to veterinary medicine touched countless lives and set a standard of kindness and professionalism for all of us. Even those outside our practice recognized his warmth and commitment to every animal he treated.
New York Second Chance Rescue honored Dr. Hussein as a great man who kept prices affordable for pet owners and who often worked seven days a week.
All of our thoughts are with his family, colleagues and everyone who trusted him to help and treat their beloved pets.
May his memory be a blessing, and may we do better by the people who devote their lives to caring for our beloved pets.
Rest in peace Dr. Hussein.
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