Bradford Tragedy: Ex-Partner Arrested in Fatal House Fire That Claimed Lives of Mother and Three Children
Bradford, UK – In a heartbreaking incident that has sent shockwaves through the Bradford community, a mother and her three young children have died following a devastating house fire on Wednesday. Police have revealed that the suspect, who has been arrested on suspicion of murder, is the ex-partner of a woman who was visiting the victims at the time of the tragedy.
Bryonie Gawith, 29, tragically lost her life at the scene of the fire, while her three children—Denisty, nine, Oscar, five, and 22-month-old Aubree Birtle—succumbed to their injuries in the hospital. The incident, which West Yorkshire Police believe to be “domestic-related,” has left the local community in mourning.
The 39-year-old man, now in critical condition in the hospital, has been identified as the ex-partner of a woman who was visiting the family when the fire broke out. Authorities are urging the public to avoid speculating online, as this could add to the distress of those affected.
To clarify details surrounding the incident, a police spokesperson confirmed that uniformed officers had visited the address last month for an unrelated matter. As a result, the force will not be referring the case to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC).
Specialist officers support the grieving family, including Bryonie’s partner, Jonathan. A family spokesperson expressed their devastation and urged the public to respect their privacy during this difficult time.
In a poignant tribute released through the police, the family shared their sorrow at the loss of “our B” and her beloved children, affectionately known as “Chuch, Oggy, and Strawberry.” The statement described Bryonie as “the life and soul of the party,” with a love for music, singing, and dancing that she passed on to her children. Each child was lovingly remembered for their unique personalities. Denisty was described as a confident and creative young girl, Oscar as a cheeky yet shy boy, and Aubree as a bashful little girl with big blue eyes.
“We are still trying to comprehend what has happened to our beautiful family,” the statement read. “No words can describe how we are feeling, and no words could ever make up for the profound loss we are now faced with.”
Jonathan, the children’s father, also released a heartfelt statement expressing his grief: “I am absolutely distraught at the sudden loss of my fiancée, Bryonie, and our three beautiful children. They were my world, and I loved them with all my heart. If I had the chance, I would take their place in a heartbeat.”
West Yorkshire Police reiterated their request for privacy for the grieving family, urging the public to allow them space to mourn peacefully.
The investigation into the tragic fire continues, and authorities are appealing for any information to assist their inquiries. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact police on 101, quoting log 107 of August 21, or to reach out anonymously through Crimestoppers.
