JACKSONVILLE, Fla. -- Jacksonville police and Jacksonville Fire Rescue crews rushed to the scene of a house fire at Wilder Avenue and East 65th Street on Monday morning.

According to authorities, 90-year-old Audrey Flowers Helvenston died after the fire broke out.

JFRD said Helvenston lived alone in the home and was trying to cook a meal when she accidentally set herself on fire.

Using the aid of her walker, she tried to escape out of the home's back door but could not because it was locked, said Tom Francis of the JFRD.

"As she tried to make it to the front door, apparently she came across many obstacles throughout the living room area. There are indications that the fire spread against the wall and other items in the living room, until she collided with one piece of furniture and collapsed on the floor," said Francis.

Residents in the area said they were devastated to hear what had happened to their neighbor.

"When we looked out, we saw the smoke coming from the lady's house across the street. My husband and I ran out," said Michelle Nash.

She told Channel 4 that it didn't take long for firefighters to rush inside the house as thick, black smoke was pouring out of the windows and attic.

"No forcible entry was needed. The front door was unlocked and that is exactly where they found her," Francis said.

"I just thought that the house was on fire. I had no idea. We were all gathered down here waiting to hear. We had no idea," said Wylene Kirkland, who has lived down the street from Helvenston for 27 years. "She was a beautiful lady. She was a beautiful Christian. She would go out of her way to help anybody -- just a super lady."

The JFRD said its investigation of the fatal incident is ongoing.