Four Charged in Fatal Hyperbaric Chamber Explosion

Four individuals, including Tamela Peterson, the CEO and owner of the Oxford Center in Troy, Michigan, have been charged with second-degree murder and involuntary manslaughter following the death of 5-year-old Thomas Cooper in a hyperbaric chamber explosion on January 31, 2025. The explosion, which also injured Cooper's mother, occurred when the chamber, containing 100% oxygen, combusted. Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel announced the charges, citing a wanton disregard for safety by the involved parties. The family of the deceased has engaged Fieger Law for representation and is seeking injunctive relief to inspect the site. This tragic incident highlights the risks associated with hyperbaric oxygen therapy, which is only FDA-approved for specific conditions and is extremely combustible. Meanwhile, the Oxford Center has expressed disappointment over the timing of the charges, emphasizing their commitment to safety and cooperation with ongoing investigations.