Woman dies in house fire aided by oxygen tank

INDEPENDENCE, Mo. -- An Independence woman died Monday morning in an accidental house fire fueled by an oxygen machine.

Betty M. Price, 69, apparently made it out of the house before becoming overcome by smoke and flames, investigators said.

Investigators said the fire was likely started in the front living room by a cigarette, then spread through surrounding rooms and into the attic with the help of the concentrated oxygen.

Two neighbors, who were outside shoveling snow, told officials they heard an explosion and saw flames quickly engulf the living area. Fire crews heard another explosion moments after they arrived on scene. Investigators said at least one oxygen tank exploded inside.