A physical therapist tragically died Tuesday evening after a hyperbaric oxygen chamber caught fire at a medical facility in Scottsdale, Arizona. Emergency services responded to the incident, which has prompted a multi-agency investigation into the cause of the blaze.
The victim was identified by authorities as 42-year-old Dr. Evelyn Reed, a long-time physical therapist at the Scottsdale Advanced Therapeutics Center. The incident occurred shortly before 7:00 PM MST when an alarm was triggered, followed by reports of smoke emanating from the facility. Fire crews arrived on scene within minutes, finding a single-occupancy hyperbaric chamber engulfed in flames.
Scottsdale Fire Department Chief Michael Jensen addressed reporters outside the facility early Wednesday morning. “Our crews faced an extremely dangerous situation, given the high oxygen concentration within the chamber,” Chief Jensen stated. “Despite their rapid response and efforts to suppress the fire, the individual inside was found deceased. This is a profound tragedy, and our thoughts are with the victim’s family and colleagues.”
Investigation Underway
The precise cause of the fire remains under investigation. Authorities from the Scottsdale Fire Department’s Arson and Bomb Squad, the Scottsdale Police Department, and potentially federal agencies such as the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) are collaborating to determine what led to the fatal incident. Initial inquiries are expected to focus on potential electrical malfunctions, equipment failure, or issues related to the highly flammable, oxygen-rich environment inherent to hyperbaric chambers.
“Our primary focus now is to conduct a thorough and meticulous investigation to understand exactly what transpired,” said Sergeant Laura Chen, a spokesperson for the Scottsdale Police Department. “We are reviewing security footage, interviewing staff, and working closely with fire investigators to gather all available evidence. We urge patience as this complex process unfolds.”
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurized room or tube. The increased air pressure allows the lungs to collect more oxygen than would be possible at normal air pressure, which can aid in healing various medical conditions. However, the use of pure oxygen creates an elevated risk of fire, as oxygen accelerates combustion, making safety protocols and equipment maintenance paramount.
Officials have not yet released details regarding the specific type of hyperbaric chamber involved or its maintenance history. The Scottsdale Advanced Therapeutics Center has temporarily suspended operations as the investigation proceeds and has not yet issued a public statement beyond confirming their full cooperation with authorities.
Dr. Reed was reportedly conducting a routine therapy session at the time of the incident. Colleagues and patients have expressed shock and grief over her sudden passing, remembering her as a dedicated and compassionate healthcare professional.
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