An autopsy revealed the gym employee died of suffocation due to a lack of oxygen, likely caused by the nitrogen leak.
Three other individuals who attempted to administer aid were also treated for exposure. Screens were placed outside the gym as authorities managed the aftermath, and the gym was evacuated with around 150 people inside at the time.
What Happened Inside the Cryochamber?
Though the exact sequence of events has not yet been officially released, autopsy results suggest both women suffocated inside the chamber. It is believed that liquid nitrogen leaked into the cryotherapy room, displaced the oxygen, and caused asphyxiation.
Nitrogen, a colorless and odorless gas, makes up about 80% of the air we breathe. While harmless when properly used, in confined spaces, an unchecked nitrogen leak can rapidly displace oxygen, leading to unconsciousness and death within minutes.
“It’s a stupid accident with terrible consequences. It’s infinitely sad. Losing your life for a cryotherapy session is tragic,” said François Vauglin, the Socialist mayor of the 11th arrondissement.
