Troy, Michigan – Three individuals are facing charges of second-degree murder following a tragic hyperbaric chamber explosion that claimed the life of a 5-year-old boy in January. Additionally, a fourth person has been charged with involuntary manslaughter in connection with the incident.
The explosion occurred on January 31 at The Oxford Center in Troy, where Thomas Cooper was undergoing hyperbaric oxygen treatment. The CEO of The Oxford Center, along with the safety director and primary manager, were all arrested and charged with second-degree murder. The individual operating the hyperbaric chamber has been charged with involuntary manslaughter and providing false information on a medical record.
Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel announced the charges, expressing the belief that the fatal accident could have been prevented had proper safety protocols been followed. The investigation conducted by the Troy Police Department led to the arrests, yet the exact circumstances that led to the charges remain unclear.
In response to the charges, The Oxford Center released a statement expressing disappointment at the timing of the charges. The center emphasized its commitment to the safety and well-being of the children and families they serve.
The family of Thomas Cooper is being represented by Fieger Law, with the managing partner of the firm highlighting the heartbreaking nature of the incident. Cooper’s mother, who was present during the explosion, also sustained injuries. The hyperbaric chamber is said to contain 100% oxygen, making it highly combustible due to the increased atmospheric pressure.
According to The Oxford Center’s website, the hyperbaric oxygen therapy involves administering pure oxygen to the body under increased pressure in an enclosed hard chamber. A GoFundMe page has been set up to support Cooper’s family, describing his love for life and various activities.
The tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of safety protocols and precautions in medical treatments involving specialized equipment. The pursuit of justice for Thomas Cooper continues as authorities seek to hold those responsible accountable for the devastating loss.