Massachusetts man using blowtorch on roof to melt ice sets home on fire

A Massachusetts homeowner accidentally set his house on fire while trying to melt ice buildup during a brutal winter stretch of arctic misery that has frustrated millions of Americans.

The fire broke out at a home in Milton, Massachusetts, after the man used a blowtorch to melt ice on his roof, Milton Fire Deputy Chief John Earner said. Flames quickly spread into the attic, turning what appeared to be a small flare-up into a major fire.

Witnesses said the fire escalated rapidly.

"He gets down...