On January 31, 2025, a tragic incident occurred at The Oxford Center in Troy, Michigan, resulting in the death of five-year-old Thomas Cooper during a hyperbaric oxygen therapy session. Thomas was undergoing treatment for sleep apnea and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) when the hyperbaric chamber he was in exploded, leading to a devastating fire. His mother, Annie Cooper, was present during the session and sustained significant burns to her arms while attempting to rescue her son from the flames. Despite her courageous efforts, Thomas did not survive the incident.
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy involves placing patients in a pressurized chamber where they breathe 100% oxygen, a treatment approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for specific medical conditions. However, its efficacy for ailments such as sleep apnea and ADHD remains unproven. The high concentration of oxygen within the chamber significantly increases the risk of combustion, making any ignition source potentially catastrophic.
In the aftermath of the explosion, both the Troy Fire and Police Departments launched an investigation to determine the cause of the incident. Preliminary findings indicate that such explosions are exceedingly rare, and authorities are working diligently to uncover the specific factors that led to this tragedy. The Oxford Center has expressed its condolences and is fully cooperating with the ongoing investigation.
The loss of Thomas has left the Cooper family devastated. Described as a “curious, energetic, smart, outgoing and thoughtful little boy,” Thomas had a zest for life and a passion for making others happy. His mother, Annie, shared that he aspired to become a chef to stay close to her and cherished activities like running at full speed, which he called “super sonic mode.”
In response to the tragedy, the Cooper family has announced plans to file a lawsuit against The Oxford Center. Their attorney, James Harrington, emphasized the family’s desire to prevent similar incidents in the future, stating, “Annie was trying to help her child as any parent would—as good parents do.” He further highlighted the emotional and physical trauma Annie endured during her brave attempt to save her son.
A GoFundMe page has been established to assist the Cooper family with expenses related to Thomas’s passing. The community has rallied around them, offering support and condolences during this unimaginably difficult time. As the investigation continues, questions regarding the safety protocols of hyperbaric oxygen therapy, especially for unapproved treatments, have come to the forefront, underscoring the need for stringent safety measures and regulatory oversight to prevent future tragedies.
