car will not start after small amount of smoke from around stearing colume and gauge clsuter

While driving a small amount of smoke cane out around the drivers side dash and from behind the gauges. Now car will not start, only half the gauges light up and are un responsive (tank has gas but only shows empty) not obvious burnt wires are visible have tested fuses but not relays. Car is in great shape other wise and i really just need an idea of where to check or what to replace. This car is not a project its my daily and getting it back to running could me sink or swim for me so if you can help me I would appreciate it some much. Thank you