Four Individuals Indicted in Tragic Death of Michigan Boy in Hyperbaric Chamber Blaze

Four individuals were arrested and charged in connection with the death of 5-year-old Thomas Cooper, who died in a hyperbaric chamber explosion at the Oxford Center in Troy, Michigan, on January 31. The charges were announced by police on March 11, 2025.

The tragic incident occurred during a treatment session at an alternative medicine facility where Thomas was undergoing hyperbaric oxygen therapy for sleep apnea and ADHD. The explosion resulted in severe injuries and ultimately claimed his life. In addition to Tamela Peterson, the founder of the Oxford Center, two others face second-degree murder charges while a fourth individual is charged with involuntary manslaughter and falsifying medical records.

Details surrounding the incident indicate that Thomas’ mother sustained burns while attempting to rescue him from the chamber after flames erupted. An attorney representing Thomas’ family stated they plan to file a lawsuit against those involved despite the criminal charges filed against them. The Oxford Center has expressed disappointment over these developments, claiming they cooperated fully with investigations following the accident.

• Thomas Cooper was five years old when he died on January 31.
• The Oxford Center offers treatments for various conditions but does not have FDA approval for all its claims.
• The defendants are set to be arraigned shortly after their arrests.

The case highlights ongoing concerns regarding safety protocols at alternative medicine facilities that offer treatments such as hyperbaric oxygen therapy. As investigations continue, questions remain about how such a catastrophic event could occur within what is supposed to be a controlled medical environment.

This case underscores serious legal and ethical implications regarding patient safety in alternative medicine settings as families seek justice for preventable tragedies like this one.