KANNAPOLIS, N.C. — Officials said one person has died and three firefighters are injured after a house caught fire early Wednesday morning in Kannapolis.
Firefighters arrived at the scene on Prince Street just before 6 a.m. and said the house was engulfed in flames.
According to officials, eight people were able to escape the blaze, but Patricia Hyatt, 69, was found dead at the scene.
Division Chief Kirk Beard said three firefighters suffered minor injuries after an oxygen tank in the home exploded.
"We had a couple that had fallen down and then concussion from the shock. It was a pretty significant explosion from what we've been told from people in the area," he said.
Family members told Channel 9's Gina Esposito that they were planning to host Thanksgiving dinner in the home, but will now be planning a funeral.
According to officials, three family members were transported to the hospital after suffering minor burns and possible smoke inhalation.
Beard said there were no working smoke detectors in the home and stressed the importance of the alarms during a news conference Wednesday morning.
The fire spread quickly, causing the roof of the home to collapse.
“I, myself, lost my son on Thanksgiving Day of last year so it’s going to be a difficult time for me as well, and this really stirs my emotions,” family friend Steve Kluttz said.
Officials said an investigation into the cause of the fire is underway, but it appears to be accidental.
Beard told Channel 9 that the family members who were able to escape without injuries are now receiving care from the Red Cross.
This is an ongoing investigation. Check back with wsoctv.com for updates.
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