Authorities in Ocean County say a house fire Sunday night that critically injured two people has been ruled accidental.

Get our free mobile app

Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley Billhimer's office says the blaze on Mount Everest Lane in Toms River was caused by careless smoking while oxygen was in use.

The fire started around 9:45 PM and firefighters on the scene found two people, later identified as Linda Summerton and Ricky McMurry, both 73-year-old, inside. Both were airlifted to the Burn Center at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center in Livingston for treatment.

Mount Everest Lane in Toms River NJ - Photo: Google Maps
Mount Everest Lane in Toms River NJ - Photo: Google Maps
loading...

As of Wednesday morning, McMurry remains listed in critical condition while Summerton is in stable condition.

Three firefighters also suffered minor injuries and were treated at the scene.

You Know You're From Toms River When...

Study: Six of the top 30 deadliest intersections in America are in NJ

Analysis of NHTSA data by the Fang Law Firm determined these six intersections are among the deadliest in the nation.

More From WPG Talk Radio 95.5 FM