Five-Year-Old Dies in Michigan Hyperbaric Chamber Explosion

SOUTHFIELD, Mich. — The family of a 5-year-old boy killed in a hyperbaric chamber explosion is seeking answers as they mourn his tragic death. Thomas Cooper was receiving treatment at the Oxford Recovery Center in Troy, Michigan, when the incident occurred on January 31, 2025, during what was supposed to be a routine session for his ADHD and sleep apnea.

James Harrington, managing partner at Fieger Law, who is representing Thomas’ family, described the emotional turmoil experienced by his parents. “They are absolutely devastated. No parent should ever have to endure something like this,” Harrington said. He revealed that Thomas’ mother sustained significant burns on her arms while trying to rescue her son from the flames.

The Coopers had reportedly paid out-of-pocket for the treatment, which included a total of 36 hyperbaric sessions. Harrington noted that the family had hoped to see improvements in Thomas’ condition. “This wasn’t some type of lifesaving measure that was absolutely needed. It was just a mother trying to help her child,” said Harrington.

According to initial reports, the hyperbaric chamber experienced a fiery explosion, prompting an immediate response from local police and fire officials. The Oxford Recovery Center stated in a public response that they are cooperating fully with the investigation, emphasizing their commitment to the safety and well-being of their patients.

As the investigation continues, the center’s Troy location remains closed. Officials confirmed that no charges have yet been filed, and a police spokesperson stated there were no updates regarding the probe.

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy, while FDA-approved for specific conditions like carbon monoxide poisoning and decompression sickness, has garnered scrutiny for unproven claims made by unaccredited facilities regarding its efficacy for other diseases, including ADHD and autism. The FDA specifically warns that the use of hyperbaric therapy for these conditions is not substantiated.

Tom Workman, a former director at the Undersea & Hyperbaric Medical Society, commented on the need for strict oversight in hyperbaric facilities, saying, “It should never happen that a child dies in one of these chambers.” He stressed that therapies should only be administered by trained professionals.

In light of this tragic incident, the Cooper family is initiating legal action to uncover possible negligence and ensure similar events do not occur in the future. Harrington stated, “Whether it’s operator error or machine malfunction, it should never, ever happen under any circumstances.”

As the community rallies around the Cooper family, support has been organized, with a GoFundMe campaign set up to assist with expenses. “I think the most important thing for the family is to pray,” Harrington stated, highlighting the emotional strain on Thomas’ parents and his younger brother, who has been struggling to cope with the loss.