The blaze broke out around 3 a.m. at 4805 West Hills Drive, just off Hillsborough Road in Durham. Officials say Frances Ragan, 74, died. The flames burst out of the house and above the tree line, posing a challenge for firefighters. Crews used a ladder truck to get to the fire, controlling it quickly, but the flames were too fierce. The roof collapsed on the building, making it too dangerous for firefighters to get inside to reach Ragan.

At daybreak, and after several hours of searching, firefighters found Ragan's body on the second floor of the home. Officials believe she died of smoke inhalation. Investigators believe the fire started in the kitchen.

Ragan lived in the home for more than 40 years. She was a retired nurse who leaves behind to adult children. Neighbor Karen Brown called 911 when she noticed the flames. "It was totally in flames," she said. "I don't think she could've got out."