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Candle blamed for deadly south Charlotte apartment fire

An unattended candle is being blamed for a fire on Sunday that left one person dead and two firefighters injured.

The Charlotte Fire Department says it began just before noon in an apartment complex on Park Road near South Mecklenburg High School. It took about 45 minutes to get the fire under control.

The apartment building contains 12 units and is home to 14 residents. The American Red Cross is assisting those displaced by the fire.

Two Charlotte firefighters sustained minor injuries fighting the fire. They were treated and have since been released.

Additionally, firefighters rescued one animal from the building, which was safely returned to its owner.

The fire was caused by an unattended burning candle in a flower planter box. Estimated property loss is $175,000.