FIRE! Sharp Microhood turned itself on during the...

Question

I awoke last night to the sound of a *snap*crackle*pop! I followed the sound into the kitchen and there were flames inside the microwave! I had been asleep at least 2 hours and had done no cooking in several days (rarely ever use this unit, since have a larger appliance I prefer). If I had not awakened and heard the noise... would my tenants and I all be dead today? This unit is not new... but no unit should EVER do this! Do I have legal recourse for the damage and loss? Luckily I had a fire extinguisher!