Man Arrested After Deadly Bradford House Fire
A 39-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of murder following a devastating house fire in Bradford that killed a mother and her three children. Police confirmed the suspect is the ex-partner of a woman who was visiting the family when the blaze broke out.
Mother and Three Kids Perish in Early Morning Blaze
The fire erupted in the early hours of Wednesday, tragically taking the lives of Bryonie Gawith, 29, and her three children: Denisty Birtle, 9, Oscar Birtle, 5, and toddler Aubree Birtle, just 22 months old. West Yorkshire Police say the fire was deliberately started and is believed to be domestic-related.
Suspect in Critical Condition, Police Debunk Rumours
The man was arrested at the scene and remains in critical condition in hospital. Police addressed online speculation, confirming the suspect’s connection to the family through the visiting woman. Officers had visited the home last month for an unrelated incident, but no police conduct referrals are planned.
Heartbroken Fiancé Issues Emotional Statement
Jonathan, Bryonie’s fiancé, said, “I am absolutely distraught at the sudden loss of my fiancée, Bryonie, and our three beautiful children. Bryonie was a loving mother and a beautiful woman. I loved them with all my heart. If I had the chance, I would take their place in a heartbeat.”
Family described Bryonie, affectionately known as “B,” as the “life and soul of the party” with a love for music, singing, and dancing with her children, whom she called Chuch, Oggy, and Strawberry. They expressed their heartbreak and pleaded for privacy to grieve.
Community and Police Appeal for Information
The Bradford community has been left reeling, with many paying tribute at the fire scene and offering condolences. West Yorkshire Police are continuing their investigation and ask anyone with information to come forward.
