The parents of 5-year-old Thomas Cooper, who died in a hyperbaric chamber fire last month in Michigan, are devastated by the tragedy, their attorney said. Thomas had been undergoing hyperbaric oxygen therapy for sleep apnea and ADHD at the Oxford Center, an alternative medicine facility in Troy. His mother, Annie Cooper, suffered burns while desperately trying to rescue him from the flames but was unable to save him.

The cause of the explosion remains under investigation, and the Oxford Center has not commented beyond a statement affirming its commitment to safety. The facility’s Troy location is temporarily closed as authorities examine the incident, but no charges have been filed.

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy involves breathing 100% oxygen in a pressurized chamber and is FDA-approved for limited conditions, such as carbon monoxide poisoning and decompression sickness. However, wellness centers increasingly promote it for unproven treatments, including autism and Alzheimer’s, despite FDA warnings. The Oxford Center is not among the facilities accredited by the Undersea & Hyperbaric Medical Society.

Thomas Cooper.

Thomas’ parents had hoped the therapy would help him, but their attorney stressed it was not a life-saving treatment—just a mother seeking ways to support her child. The family plans to file a lawsuit to prevent similar tragedies.

Experts warn that while hyperbaric chambers are generally safe when properly managed, the high concentration of oxygen increases fire risks. Previous incidents, including a 2009 Florida fire that killed a child and his grandmother at an unaccredited clinic, highlight the dangers of improper oversight.

The FDA, which regulates hyperbaric chambers as Class II medical devices, urges patients to seek accredited facilities and warns against unsupported claims of benefits. The agency has not indicated whether it will take further action regarding the Oxford Center. Meanwhile, the Coopers seek accountability, believing no family should endure such a loss.