Toddler killed, 8 others hospitalized after house fire in Shaler Township

SHALER TOWNSHIP, Pa. — A toddler was killed and eight other people were taken to a hospital after a house fire in Shaler Township.

PHOTOS: Emergency crews battling house fire in Shaler Township

Firefighters and medics were called to Fall Run Road at around 9:45 p.m.

According to Shaler Township police chief Sean Frank, firefighters found 2-year-old Danika DeRamo on the first floor of the home. She was taken to a local hospital and was later pronounced deceased.

“Danika was my little angel,” said Danika’s grandmother, Kathy Palmer.

Palmer said DeRamo ran out of the grips of her mother while they were trying to escape the house.

“She ran back in because the cat got spooked. She pulled away from Courtney who had her 3-week baby in her arm, trying to get out and she lost sight of her,” said Palmer.

Palmer is devastated after the tragedy.

“She was just full of life. She would have been three in February. And to be done like this, this isn’t fair,” said Palmer.

Palmer said the four other members of the family four were able to escape. Two were taken to a hospital via ambulance and two were taken by private vehicle.

Four firefighters were also injured in the blaze and taken to a hospital for treatment. None of their injuries were life-threatening, Chief Frank said.

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

Shaler Township Police are being assisted by the Allegheny County Police Homicide Unit and the Allegheny County Fire Marshal’s Office.

The cause and origin of the fire are still under investigation.

If you would like to donate to the GoFundMe page for Danika’s memorial funds, click here.

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