Physical therapist burned alive inside hyperbaric oxygen chamber at his own practice

Published: Friday, July 11, 2025 at 2:54 am

Physical Therapist Dies in Hyperbaric Chamber Fire

A physical therapist died in a fire inside a hyperbaric oxygen chamber at his practice. Firefighters responded to a report of a fire at Havasu Health and Hyperbarics around 11 p.m. Wednesday. Upon arrival, they found smoke billowing from the building. Inside, they discovered the body of Dr. Walter Foxcroft, 43, inside the chamber. He was pronounced dead at the scene. No other injuries were reported.

Hyperbaric chambers are sealed enclosures used to control air pressure and oxygen levels. They are utilized for various health treatments. The exact reason for Dr. Foxcroft's presence inside the chamber late at night is unknown.

Dr. Foxcroft was a 2005 graduate of the University of Arizona, where he served as the mascot, Wilbur T. Wildcat, for three years. He later became Big Red for the Arizona Cardinals, attending Super Bowl XLIII in 2006. He earned his Doctorate in Physical Therapy in 2012 and founded Havasu Health and Hyperbarics in 2024. The practice is the state's first integrative naturopathic hyperbaric oxygen therapy center.

Authorities are investigating the cause of the fire. The practice will remain closed until the investigation is complete. This incident follows a similar event earlier this year involving a child in a hyperbaric chamber.

BNN's Perspective:

This tragic incident underscores the importance of stringent safety protocols and thorough investigations in medical practices, especially those involving specialized equipment. While hyperbaric oxygen therapy offers potential benefits, the inherent risks associated with these chambers must be carefully managed to prevent future tragedies.

Keywords: hyperbaric chamber, fire, death, physical therapist, oxygen therapy, investigation, Havasu Health and Hyperbarics, Dr. Walter Foxcroft, Arizona, medical practice, accident, blaze

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