Therapist, 43, burns alive trapped in oxygen tank that turned into fiery coffin after flash fire erupted at his practice
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A PHYSICAL therapist has been found dead after getting burned alive inside a hyperbaric oxygen chamber at his own practice.
Dr Walter Foxcroft, 43, was killed when a flash fire ignited in the therapy machine - transforming it into a blazing coffin.
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A physical therapist died inside a hyperbaric oxygen chamber
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Dr Walter Foxcroft, 43, was killed when a flash fire ignited in the therapy machine
The physical therapist's remains were discovered by firefighters who scrambled to his practice, Havasu Health and Hyperbarics, after receiving a report of a blaze there at around 11pm on Wednesday.
Upon arrival, emergency services witnessed thick smoke billowing through the building.
They soon came across the tragic scene, with 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.
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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 group wrote 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.
"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."
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