1 killed, 8 hospitalized in Shaler house fire; authorities identify 2-year-old victim

A 2-year-old girl died after being rescued from a house fire Friday night in Shaler, according to township police.

Danika Deramo was found on the first floor of the home and was taken to UPMC Mercy hospital, where she was pronounced dead at 10:34 p.m. The Allegheny County Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed the identity of the girl.

Four firefighters were hospitalized for treatment of injuries sustained in the 9:45 p.m. blaze at 750 Fall Run Road, a small, wooded street near Middle Road and the township’s border with O’Hara.

Police said their injuries are not life threatening.

Four other people in the house escaped the flames but were hospitalized. Police said two were taken by ambulance and the others went by private vehicle.

“Our hearts go out to the family, and all involved in the rescue of this young child,” Shaler police Chief Sean Frank said in a news release. “Please keep all involved in your thoughts and prayers.”

Authorities are investigating the cause and origin of the fire. Township police are being assisted by Allegheny County Police and the county fire marshal.