A vehicle fire appears to have been the cause of an early morning blaze that severely damaged an apartment complex, destroyed several vehicles and sent two children to the hospital, the South Salt Lake Fire Department reported.

The fire at the Shenandoah Apartments at 336 E. 3360 South was reported about 3 a.m. Thursday. According to a department spokesman, the fire is believed to have started in a vehicle parked in a carport outside the apartments.

It spread to nearby vehicles — burning about 18 cars — and then to the apartment building. Officials said 24 units were damaged, 12 were a total loss and all 36 were evacuated. The Red Cross is assisting displaced residents.

Two young children were transported to a hospital to be treated for smoke inhalation, according to authorities. They were released later in the day.

Damage from the fire is estimated at about $1 million.