By Khalida Sarwari
A fire that started in an electrical panel at a downtown San Jose apartment building this morning displaced at least 40 people.
Firefighters responded to a report of a fire at a two-story, eight-unit complex at 160 N. First St. at about 9:05 a.m.
The fire was extinguished within minutes but it caused the electricity to go out, fire Capt. Scott Kouns said.
The Silicon Valley chapter of the American Red Cross is assisting more than 25 adults and 15 children who were displaced.
An evacuation center was set up at nearby St. James Senior Center, located at 119 North Third St.
Volunteers are providing the residents with food, shelter and emotional support. Any resident who has been affected by the fire may call (877) 727-6771 for assistance.
Kouns said Pacific Gas & Electric Co. was contacted to restore power.