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Published on February 02, 2025
Tragic Blast at Troy Medical Center Claims Life of 5-Year-Old Thomas Cooper in Hyperbaric Chamber MishapSource: Google Street View

In a devastating turn of events in Troy, Michigan, a 5-year-old boy, Thomas Cooper, was tragically killed in a hyperbaric chamber explosion at a medical facility, prompting his family to retain the representation of Fieger Law. CBS News Detroit reported that the explosion occurred last Friday morning, and the boy was pronounced dead at the scene, with his mother sustaining injuries to her arms. Managing Partner James Harrington of Fieger Law expressed condolences, stating, "This is an unimaginable tragedy, and our hearts are with the family as they navigate this immeasurable loss."

Authorities responded to the explosion at the Oxford Medical Center around 8 a.m., where firefighters contained the blaze to the room, and police officials noted the rarity of such an incident with hyperbaric chambers typically considered safe. According to CBS News Detroit, Lieutenant Keith Young of the Troy Fire Department pointed out that the chamber contains "100% oxygen which is up to five times the amount than a normal room," elevating the risk of combustibility in such an environment, the investigation into the cause of the explosion and the facility's accreditation by authorities remains ongoing.

While the specific treatment Thomas was receiving in the hyperbaric chamber at the time of the explosion has not been disclosed, hyperbaric oxygen therapy is known for treating various conditions, and the Oxford Center's website lists over 60, including autism and COVID-19. The Detroit News highlighted that the FDA has cleared hyperbaric chambers to treat 13 conditions, underscoring their common usage in medical treatments. In light of the tragedy, former medical director Dr. Christian Bogner emphasized the importance of strict safety protocols, saying, "Ensuring proper adherence to established safety standards is crucial for the well-being of every patient."