Four charged in Troy Michigan hyperbaric chamber explosion that killed 5-year-old

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel charges four individuals after a hyperbaric chamber explosion at the Troy Oxford Center results in the tragic death of a child.

Oxford Center Faces Criminal Charges After Fatal Hyperbaric Chamber Explosion

LANSING, MI – The Oxford Center in Troy, Michigan, and four individuals are facing criminal charges in connection with the death of 5-year-old Thomas Cooper, who died when a hyperbaric oxygen therapy chamber exploded on January 31, 2025. Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel announced that the owner and three center employees have been charged following an extensive investigation.

Charges Include Second-Degree Murder and Involuntary Manslaughter

The following individuals are facing serious charges:

• Tamela Peterson, 58, of Brighton (Owner): Second-Degree Murder (Life sentence) or Involuntary Manslaughter (15 years)
• Jeffrey Mosteller, 64, of Clinton Township (Safety Manager): Second-Degree Murder or Involuntary Manslaughter
• Gary Marken, 65, of Spring Arbor (Primary Management Assistant): Second-Degree Murder or Involuntary Manslaughter
• Aleta Moffitt, 60, of Rochester Hills (Chamber Operator): Involuntary Manslaughter and Medical Records Falsification (4-year felony)

What is a Hyperbaric Chamber?

A hyperbaric chamber is a medical device used for Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT), a treatment that involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurized environment. The increased pressure allows the lungs to absorb more oxygen than usual, which is then carried through the bloodstream to promote healing and fight infections.

How a Hyperbaric Chamber Works:

1. Increased Pressure: The chamber is pressurized to 1.5 to 3 times the normal atmospheric pressure.
2. Oxygen Saturation: Patients breathe 100% pure oxygen, which dissolves more efficiently into the bloodstream.
3. Healing Benefits: The high oxygen levels help with:
   • Wound healing (especially in diabetics)
   • Treating carbon monoxide poisoning
   • Reducing inflammation
   • Aiding in recovery from infections or injuries

Types of Hyperbaric Chambers:

1. Monoplace Chamber: A single-person unit where the patient lies inside a tube-like chamber.
2. Multiplace Chamber: A larger chamber where multiple patients can be treated at the same time, often wearing oxygen masks.

Common Uses of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT):

• Medical Conditions:
  • Carbon monoxide poisoning
  • Decompression sickness (for divers)
  • Severe burns or wounds
  • Radiation injuries (from cancer treatments)
• Experimental/Alternative Treatments:
  • Autism
  • Traumatic brain injuries
  • Chronic fatigue syndrome

While HBOT has legitimate FDA-approved medical uses, some applications—such as its use for autism or ADHD—are still controversial and not widely supported by scientific evidence.

Allegations of Negligence and Safety Violations

The Oxford Center specializes in therapy for children with autism, ADHD, and autoimmune diseases through Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT). However, investigators allege that strict safety protocols published by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and Sechrist, the chamber’s manufacturer, were deliberately ignored at the time of the incident.

“This tragedy could have been prevented if proper safety protocols were followed,” said Attorney General Dana Nessel. “Instead, deliberate negligence and a blatant disregard for safety cost a child his life. I appreciate the investigatory efforts of the Troy Police Department. My office remains committed to seeking justice for Thomas and holding those responsible accountable.”

Investigation Led by Troy Police Department

The Troy Police Department spearheaded the criminal investigation, resulting in the arrests of the four defendants, who are currently in custody awaiting arraignment.

“After an extensive and difficult investigation, these arrests reflect the dedication and commitment of our investigators through this process,” said Troy Police Chief Josh Jones. “We appreciate the partnership with the Michigan Attorney General’s Office leading up to the arrests yesterday and as we move forward.”

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