Third death in sweat lodge "box" case

Third person dies in Arizona 'sweatbox' case
Story Highlights
"Sweatbox" retreat claims third victim, a Minnesota woman

Retreat participants fell ill after spending hours in hot, dome-like structure

"Spiritual Warrior" program was led by self-help guru James Arthur Ray

Police are conducting a homicide investigation into "sweatbox" deaths

(CNN) -- A woman hospitalized after spending time in a sauna-like "sweatbox" has died, bringing the total fatalities to three, authorities said late Saturday.


Two people died and were 19 injured after spending up to two hours inside this "sweatbox" at an Arizona resort.

In addition to the deaths, 18 others were injured at the October 8 event at Angel Valley Retreat Center near Sedona, Arizona.

The latest victim, Lizabeth Neuman, 49, was a Minnesota mother of three. She died at the Flagstaff Medical Center, the Yavapai County Sheriff's Office said.

There were up to 65 visitors, ages 30 to 60, at the resort attending the "Spiritual Warrior" program by self-help expert James Arthur Ray, according to authorities.

Participants spent up to two hours inside the sweatbox, a dome-like structure covered with tarps and blankets, the sheriff's office said. Hot rocks and water are used to create steam in the enclosed environment.

Neuman's attorney, Lou Diesel, told CNN her family is cooperating with the investigation and once it's complete, he will "take all the appropriate actions in response to those responsible for Liz's death."
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http://www.cnn.com/2009/US/10/18/arizona.sweatbox.death/index.html