NEW YORK, N.Y. — The city mourns the loss of Dr. Ashraf Hussein, 57, a dedicated veterinarian in Queens, New York, who was found dead in a mobile veterinary van over the weekend, alongside a dog in his care. The accident occurred after heavy snow blocked the vehicle’s exhaust, creating fatal carbon monoxide exposure, according to authorities.
Dr. Hussein, originally from Egypt, came to the United States in the 1990s and devoted his life to providing veterinary care to communities often overlooked. He worked seven days a week, frequently under extreme conditions, offering low-cost services to ensure animals received the care they needed, regardless of their guardians’ ability to pay. His colleagues described him as passionate, tireless, and profoundly committed to both animals and the people who loved them.
During the accident, another veterinarian, Dr. Garo Alexanian, the owner of the mobile clinic, was also exposed to carbon monoxide but managed to crawl out of the van and is recovering in the hospital.
Authorities said emergency responders found Dr. Hussein unresponsive at the scene, and despite life-saving efforts, he was pronounced dead. The dog in the van also perished. The NYPD and medical examiner are continuing to investigate the circumstances of the incident.
Dr. Hussein is remembered by his family, colleagues at Aadobe Animal Hospital, and countless pet owners as a compassionate advocate for animals and a trusted caregiver whose dedication went far beyond a typical workday. His wife, Marwa Mansour, said he loved animals deeply and never hesitated to brave harsh weather to help them. “He didn’t care that he had to go out in the snow and the cold to go to work. That’s how passionate he was with helping the animals,” she said.
Friends and colleagues recall Dr. Hussein as warm, humorous, and deeply committed to his work. “His dedication to veterinary medicine touched countless lives and set a standard of kindness and professionalism for all of us,” Aadobe Animal Hospital wrote.
Dr. Hussein is survived by his wife, Marwa, and children, including his eldest son, Mahmoud Hussein. His passing is a devastating loss to his family, the veterinary community, and the many lives—human and animal—he cared for.
The Queens community and beyond are mourning a life of selfless service and compassion, honoring Dr. Hussein’s unwavering commitment to animals and those who love them.
🖤May his memory be a blessing, and may his dedication inspire others to care with the same heart and courage.
