Woman, Horse Killed in Fla. Hyperbaric-Chamber Explosion

Feb. 10--A 29-year-old woman and a horse are dead after a hyperbaric chamber exploded at an equine therapy center in Marion County on Friday morning, fire rescue officials said.

A spokeswoman for Marion County Fire Rescue said crews were called to KESMARC Florida on Highway 326 in Ocala about 9:20 a.m. Friday, after a report of an explosion.

The horse, MCFR spokeswoman Jessica Greene said, was inside the chamber when it exploded. It was not clear what led to the blast, which Greene said is under investigation.

Greene said a second woman, believed to be in her early 30s, was taken to Shands Medical Center with traumatic injuries. The names of those involved haven't been released.

According to its website, KESMARC Florida is "a world class equine rehabilitation facility, dedicated to the recovery and conditioning of equine athletes."

The site advertises that KESMARC offers several hi-tech treatment options for horses, including hyperbaric oxygen treatments, an underwater treadmill and laser therapy.

Greene said the explosion causes a partial collapse of the facility, including the area containing the hyperbaric chamber. Hazmat crews were also called to the scene.

This is a developing story. Check back later for updates.

Copyright 2012 - The Orlando Sentinel, Fla.