SAN RAFAEL, Calif. (KRON) — Emergency crews are responding to a large apartment fire that broke out just after 5:30 a.m. in San Rafael Thursday morning. As of 7 a.m., the fire, located on the 500 block of Canal Street, was considered contained, the San Rafael Police Department said.
Two neighboring apartment complexes were evacuated as a precaution as firefighters attacked the flames. The American Red Cross is responding to assist at least 50 residents who have been displaced, police told KRON4.
Eight residents were injured in the fire, Deputy Fire Chief Robert Sinnott said at an 8:30 a.m. news conference, with one person hospitalized with serious injuries.
The fire fully engulfed the three-story, 19-unit apartment complex, authorities said. Power has been shut off on the 500 and 600 blocks of Canal Street.
Craig Ponsford, a neighbor to the affected complex, told KRON4 he heard screaming coming from the fire shortly after 5:30 a.m. before running to help douse the flames.
“Lots of screaming happening,” Ponsford said. “We looked out our window and the whole canal was glowing. People were telling people to jump.”
The city has opened the Albert J. Boro Community Center located at 50 Canal Street for displaced residents.
The public is asked to avoid the area of Francisco Boulevard East between Harbor Street, Hoag Street, Canal Street and Medway Road.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
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