A physical therapist in Arizona has died after a flash fire erupted inside a hyperbaric oxygen chamber at his clinic, leaving him trapped inside as the machine turned into a deadly inferno.
Dr. Walter Foxcroft, 43, was found dead inside the chamber late Wednesday night at Havasu Health and Hyperbarics, according to the Lake Havasu City Fire Department, via the New York Post.
Crews responded around 11:00PM following reports of a fire at the facility and arrived to find smoke filling the building before locating the hyperbaric chamber engulfed in flames with Foxcroft inside.
Authorities confirmed that his body was recovered from the chamber, and he was pronounced dead at the scene. No other injuries were reported.
Hyperbaric chambers, which are sealed units designed to control air pressure and oxygen levels, are used in a range of treatments for physical and mental health, including cognition, dementia, and aging concerns, according to the clinic’s website.
It is not yet clear why Foxcroft was using the chamber at such a late hour.
Foxcroft, who graduated from the University of Arizona in 2005, was remembered by those who knew him for his energy and warmth. During his time at the university, he served as the school’s mascot, Wilbur T. Wildcat, for three years, per the Sun.
The Arizona Cheerleaders & Mascots shared on Instagram: “Wally was an unforgettable presence on the sidelines—an energetic, charismatic performer known for his signature moonwalk and passion for bringing joy to Arizona fans.
"He proudly returned for Homecoming, reconnecting with current mascots and sharing his spontaneous spirit as Wilbur with all of us.”
They continued: “Wally’s dedication to uplifting others - through performance, healing, and innovation - will never be forgotten. Thank you, Wilbur, for the spirit, the showmanship, and the legacy you leave behind.”
After earning his Bachelor of Science in Physiological Sciences, Foxcroft initially stayed in the mascot world, becoming Big Red for the Arizona Cardinals and traveling with the team to Super Bowl XLIII in 2006.
He later returned to his medical path, earning a Doctorate in Physical Therapy at Touro University Nevada in 2012.
In 2024, Foxcroft founded Havasu Health and Hyperbarics, which became Arizona’s first integrative naturopathic hyperbaric oxygen therapy center, according to reports.
Following the tragedy, the clinic announced it would remain closed while officials investigate the cause of the fire. The exact reason for the blaze has not yet been determined.