SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- The South Bend Fire Department reports South Bend Medic 2 was driving in the 1200 block of Portage Avenue around 7 a.m. Friday when they spotted a residential fire.

A firetruck on a call nearby then arrived in seconds.

Fire officials say the fire started on the first floor before extending to the second floor.

Firefighters were able to bring the fire under control within 20 minutes.

Officials say no one was home at the time fire.

Crews were able to rescue two cats and several guinea pigs from the home.

Unfortunately, one cat did not survive.

The South Bend Animal Resource Center was called to assist with the animals.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation.