Sweat Lodge Deaths Investigated as Homicides

The deaths of two people that took part in a sweat lodge ceremony led by a self-help expert are being investigated as homicides. Sheriff Steve Waugh of Yavapi County said that the deaths of Kirby Brown, thirty-eight, and James Shore, forty, were not accidental. “A combination of circumstances led to the deaths,” Waugh said. “Whether or not we can prove a criminal case, that has yet to be determined.”

Investigators are examining the way the sweat lodge was built, the fact that people had fallen ill at previous ceremonies, and the questionable medical care available on the site. Authorities said a nurse hired by the owner, James Arthur Ray, was directing rescue efforts including CPR when emergency crews got to the scene. Ray is currently the primary focus of the investigation, although other people are also being considered, authorities said.

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