Hyperbaric Explosion at KESMARC Ocala

By Visionaire on

KesmarcOcalaexp.jpg

Photo from Eisaman Equine

Eventing Nation has confirmed that earlier this morning a hyperbaric chamber at the KESMARC equine rehabilitation facility in Ocala, FL exploded.  Preliminary reports indicate one human death, another critically injured, and one horse death.  KESMARC could not be reached for comment at this time.  Our thoughts and prayers go out to those involved in this horrible tragedy.  [Local news report]

Update 12:15pm — The horse that passed away in the explosion was an event horse owned by Ms. Jacquelline Mars named Landmark’s Legendary Affaire.  “Tux” was a 2006, 16.1hh homebred gelding raised by Sue Clark and competed up to the novice level by Lauren Kieffer.  We have spoken with Lauren, who said “Tux was a very talented horse and all of us at OCET are incredibly saddened by the loss.“  Tux was being treated at KESMARC.

Update 1:00pm — The Chronicle has linked to a local Florida news report that says that there was one fatality, 28 year old Erica Marshall, and that Scorcha Moneley was transported to a hospital in Gainesville, FL for treatment.  Reports on a local news live chat state that reports from officials say that the horse started kicking and the workers were trying to turn the chamber off when the explosion happened.  [COTH, Local Report, Live Chat, Aerial Photo]

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Eventing Nation, Eventing News and Notes
  • Lori

    My condolences to all involved.

  • Sheila Wolff

    My prayers and condolences to the individuals and families affected by this tragic event.

  • Westwind1958

    I am disheartened that details regarding the horse that died are prominent and yet the name (and details) of the person who died and the other who is hospitalized in critical condition are missing. I too have lost talented horses, but human life is much more important and deserves priority.

  • Felix

    Consider the fact that the families of those involved may not have been notified yet. It is courtesy to withhold the names of people involved in accidents until their loved ones can be informed directly.

  • Maryann

    Westwind -- you are the one making it a competition (and inappropriately, I might add). Did you ever think that the human names aren't being released because their families haven't been notified. Sheesh...

    On a more appropriate note, my thoughts are with those families, both human and equine. There is enough sorrow to go around for all.

  • Kevin

    Maybe their family hasn't been notified, Westwind.

  • fran

    Ocala.com is identifying the people too: "Woman killed was 28-year-old Erica Marshall and the injured woman was Sorcha Moneley, 33." The horse details came forward first while the people's identities were being confirmed, I'm sure.

  • DH@gmail.com

    First so sorry to hear that tragic news for ALL. It is always amazing that people react like that. I know some people get upset about people working for animal welfare when there are abused and starving children. HELLO! People can care about both! One doesn't take away from the other. Besides, animal abusers often abuse people too. I was not surprised to not hear the folks names right away as notification is the proper way to do things and this is a breaking story.

  • GR

    I'm so very sorry. Heartfelt condolences to all involved.

  • Eric Nix

    My hart and prayers go out to all involved.

  • Louise

    How very awful for all involved! Prayers for all!

  • Melisssa At Gods Creatures Vet Hosp

    What a horribly sad and freakish incident. We are very big advocates of HBOT. Our thoughts and go out to everyone involved!

  • Anna

    Perhaps the family of those injured chose not to release the information immediately after their family member died? I mean...honestly.

  • sue ashe

    so very sad Prayers are with all

  • Denise Carpenter – Horse Cottage Stables

    What a tragedy. Reminds us all how a moment can change the course of so many lives involved, even us, who are strangers feel their pain.

  • dave myers

    Our prayers are with all affected by this accident. The team at KESMARCK are devoted and wonderful people who care deeply about their fellow team members, and clients. We were at the facility Thursday visiting our horse, Prince, who has been receiving excellent and loving care from Lee and all the KESMARCK team. We are impressed with their compassion and professionalism in handling the communication with their clients and arranging transition of care for Prince during this extremely challenging time. Our hearts go out to all.

  • Anonymous

    My heart hurts and I cannot even begin to express the huge loss I feel. Erica, Lee and the KESMARCK team took care of my horse who would never have made it were it not for their hard work, dedication and the personal care they put into every one of their clients and owners. I have become good friends with them over this last year, as they always go out of their way to support owners and horses even beyond their stay at KESMARCK. I cannot imagine the horrible loss everyone is experiencing at this time. I pray that God will bring comfort and good out of this terrible, tragic accident. We will be there to support them in whatever way we can.

  • Richard

    My condolences to the family.
    Equine HBOT industry is not safe. These folks have no clue as to what can happen while operating a hyperberic system with human and animal occupents. I am amazed that no one has raised the issue.
    This industry can learn a lot of safe operation of a hyperberic system from the Commercial diving industry.
    You do not introduce 100 % O2 to the interior of a Hyperberic chamber with igintion source and fuel source. O2 partial pressure must be maintained at safe levels.You must have qualified operators running these chambers along with proper operational proceedures and emergency procedures. I have spent many hrs and days in the last 35 yrs in a Hyperberic chamber and much deeper depths than would be used for HBOT SAFELY.
    Richard
    Saturation Diving Superintendent.