Harford County Man Killed In 'Minor' Housefire

Friday, December 07, 2012
Steve Fermier

Everyone except one man escaped safely from what is described as a minor housefire in Pylesville.

Authorities said 52 year old Sheldon Deller was killed when he was apparently overcome while he was asleep in his bedroom.

The State Fire Marshal said the fire barely spread from an electrical outlet but the entire house quickly became filled with dense smoke.

Three other people attempted to rescue Deller but were forced to give up the effort. Investigators believe he died from smoke inhalation.

The house on West Heaps Road had smoke alarms but not in Deller's bedroom.

Property damages were estimated at $200.