Computer catches fire at old Visalia Jail building

A computer that overcharged and caught fire in the old Visalia Jail building caused nearly $12,000 in damages Saturday afternoon, the Visalia Fire Department said.

Fire crews were able to stop the flames from spreading to nearby businesses, including a restaurant in the basement of the three-story building at 204 E. Oak Ave. that has a total estimated value of nearly $1 million.

The fire was discovered by one of the building tenants around 5:45 p.m. When fire crews initially arrived, no signs of fire were visible, but once firemen entered the building they discovered thick smoke coming from the first floor.

The restaurant beneath the flames, Jack and Charlie’s, was cleared out due to some residual smoke.

This story was originally published June 25, 2016 at 9:10 PM with the headline "Computer catches fire at old Visalia Jail building."