CHARLOTTE, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) — Early Christmas morning, two people and three cats died after an apartment fire in east Charlotte, according to the Charlotte Fire Department. Around 3:30 a.m., crews responded to the 3500 block of Spanish Quarter Circle off of N. Sharon Amity Road about reports of a smoke odor. When they arrived, there were no visible signs of smoke or fire from the outside of the building. However, there was a strong smell of smoke, officials said. House fire leaves Winston-Salem family sifting through ashes on Christmas Firefighters were able to find the fire by using thermal imaging cameras. It was quickly found and extinguished, limiting damage to other units. Firefighters found two people who were treated on the scene before being taken to a local hospital; however, sadly, both have died. Crews also found three cats in the apartment which were killed at the scene. Officials determined the fire started in the living room due to unattended burning candles. CFD says the unit had a smoke alarm and a carbon monoxide detector, but neither worked because the batteries were removed. No other occupants of the apartment were displaced. "Charlotte Fire continues to urge residents to ensure their smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are operational by testing them regularly and keeping batteries installed," officials said.