Prince’s Former Collaborator Witnessed Oxygen Tube Ignite Before Apartment Fire

In a tragic incident early Friday morning, fire engulfed the apartment of soul singer Alexander O’Neal shortly after he was discharged from the hospital. His wife, Cynthia O’Neal, described the terrifying moments leading up to the blaze, revealing that Alexander attempted to alert her when he noticed a fire near his oxygen machine.

Details of the Incident

The fire erupted around 1 AM in their Burnsville, Minnesota, residence. Cynthia reported that Alexander woke her up in a panic, raising his arms to show the flames. She quickly spotted a “bubble of fire” on the cord connected to his oxygen device.

• Location: Burnsville, Minnesota
• Time of Fire: Approximately 1 AM
• Hospitalization: Alexander was recently released from ICU after nearly two weeks
• Health Condition: Diagnosed with rare bacterial pneumonia and an enlarged heart

As the fire spread, Cynthia observed another blaze on the floor, which Alexander attempted to extinguish with his foot, resulting in burns. The fire quickly spread to their mattress, prompting the couple to escape. They struggled down three flights of stairs, with Alexander’s weakened condition worsening their efforts.

Emergency Response

Once outside, both Cynthia and Alexander were transported to a hospital due to smoke inhalation. Alexander, however, was held longer for lung tests, as concerns about his health persisted. Cynthia was discharged the same day, but Alexander’s post-hospital care was critical.

Aftermath and Damage

Upon returning to their apartment, Cynthia found their home severely damaged, describing the destruction as “total.” The fire reportedly destroyed four units in the building, categorizing them as uninhabitable. Cynthia noted, “There was nothing left. There was water up to my ankles.”

The cause of the fire remains under investigation. Fortunately, both individuals survived the ordeal. Following their discharge, the couple has found temporary refuge at a family member’s home as they plan their next steps.

Positive Outlook Amid Adversity

Despite the traumatic experience, Cynthia expressed a sense of gratitude, stating, “We are so happy to be alive. We may not have a toothbrush, but we have a car! Our spirits remain good and we are moving forward.”

Alexander O’Neal’s Career

Alexander O’Neal is well-known for his time as the lead singer of Prince’s band, The Time, in the 1980s. After leaving the group, he launched a successful solo career, producing hits such as “Wherever You Will Go,” “Sentimental,” and “Never Knew Love Like This.” Recently, he lost a close friend, Jellybean Johnson, who passed away in late November, but he was unaware of this during his hospital stay.

The community has rallied around the couple, and their resilience serves as an inspiration as they navigate this difficult chapter in their lives.