An early morning fire in Monmouth County claimed the life of an elderly man Friday. The fire broke out at a home on Cherry Street in Tinton Falls and resulted in the death of 79-year-old Francis Murphy. Murphy's wife was able to escape the flames and get out safely.Investigators are calling the fire an accident. According to the Monmouth County Prosecutor's Office, the fire started in a couch in the basement of the home from the improper use or disposal of a cigarette or lighting material.