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A PHYSICAL therapist has been burned alive inside a hyperbaric oxygen chamber at his own practice.
Dr Walter Foxcroft, 43, was tragically killed when a flash fire ignited inside the therapy machine – transforming it into a blazing coffin.
Firefighters found the physical therapist’s body at his practice, Havasu Health and Hyperbarics in Arizona, following a call around 11 PM on Wednesday about a fire at the location.
Upon arrival, emergency services witnessed thick smoke billowing through the building.
They soon came across a tragic scene – the hyperbaric chamber on fire with Dr Foxcroft inside, officials said.
His charred remains were recovered from the oxygen machine, and he was tragically pronounced dead at the scene.
No other injuries were reported, the fire department added.
Hyperbaric chambers are sealed enclosures where air pressure and oxygen levels inside are controlled.
They’re often used for patients’ physical and mental health.
The machines are thought to help with anything between cognition and dementia to physical ageing, Havasu Health and Hyperbarics’s website says.
It remains unclear why Dr Foxcroft was inside the chamber on Wednesday night.
He was a 2005 University of Arizona graduate, with his old classmates paying tribute to the doctor following the tragedy.
Dr Foxcroft was the university’s mascot for three years – Wilbur T. Wildcat – the Arizona Cheerleaders and Macots said.
The organization shared on Instagram: “Wally was a memorable figure on the sidelines—full of energy, charm, and known for his iconic moonwalk and enthusiasm in delighting Arizona fans.”
“He proudly returned for Homecoming, reconnecting with current mascots and sharing his spontaneous spirit as Wilbur with all of us.
“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.”
According to reports, Dr. Foxcroft established Havasu Health and Hyperbarics in 2024, creating the first integrative naturopathic hyperbaric oxygen therapy center in the Grand Canyon State.
The practice is to be closed until further notice as authorities investigate the tragic blaze.
The exact cause of the fire is still under investigation.
