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Tragedy at Troy Medical Facility Leads to Murder Charges
Three individuals are facing second-degree murder charges following the death of a 5-year-old boy in a hyperbaric chamber explosion at the Oxford Center in Troy, Michigan. The incident, which occurred on January 31, claimed the life of Thomas Cooper.
Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel announced the charges Tuesday, stating that safety protocols were “completely disregarded” at the time of the incident. According to Nessel, the chamber, containing 100% oxygen, became extremely flammable, leading to the fatal explosion. She placed blame on the staff, citing a “wanton or willful disregard” for safety that ultimately led to the young boy’s death.
Those charged include the Oxford Center’s owner, Tamela Peterson, 58, along with two employees: safety manager Jeffrey Mosteller, 64, and primary management assistant Gary Marken, 65. All three face second-degree murder charges and the alternative charge of involuntary manslaughter.
The operator of the hyperbaric chamber, Aleta Moffitt, 60, has been charged with involuntary manslaughter and falsifying medical records. Moffitt’s attorney maintains her innocence, describing her as a dedicated professional with a long history in healthcare.
The Oxford Center released a statement expressing disappointment with the charges, claiming the timing was premature and that key questions about the incident remain unanswered. They maintain their commitment to the safety and well-being of the families they serve.
Attorney General Nessel detailed a series of safety failures, including neglecting daily and pre-dive checks, failing to use a grounding strap, and operating without a doctor or licensed technician present. She also noted that yearly inspections of the chamber were not conducted. Nessel characterized the Oxford Center as an “unscrupulous business” prioritizing profit over the safety of its young patients.
The defendants are currently in custody and are expected to be arraigned Tuesday afternoon. The investigation into the incident is ongoing.