Third man charged with murder over house fire in Bradford that killed mother and her three children

Tragedy Strikes: A Family Lost in a House Fire

A heartbreaking tragedy unfolded in Bradford on August 21, 2024, when a devastating house fire claimed the lives of a mother and her three young children. Bryonie Gawith, a 29-year-old woman, and her three children—Denisty Birtle, aged 9, Oscar Birtle, aged 5, and 22-month-old Aubree Birtle—lost their lives in the horrific incident. The Sudden loss of this loving family has left their community in shock and grief. The fire, which occurred in their home, has sparked a wave of mourning and disbelief, as friends, family, and neighbors struggle to come to terms with the enormity of the tragedy.

A Third Suspect Charged in Connection with the Tragic Incident

As the investigation into the fire continues, a third man has been charged in connection with the deaths of Bryonie and her children. Sharaz Ali, a 39-year-old man from Bradford, has been charged with four counts of murder and one count of attempted murder. He is set to appear at Bradford Magistrates Court, marking a significant development in the ongoing case. Additionally, two other men—Mohammed Shabir, 44, and Calum Sunderland, 25, both from Keighley—are already facing trial for their alleged roles in the tragedy. They have pleaded not guilty to the charges of murder and attempted murder, but the legal process is expected to shed more light on the circumstances surrounding the fire.

A Grieving Father Speaks Out

The children’s father, Jonathan, has expressed his profound grief over the loss of his fiancée and their three children. In a heartfelt statement, he described Bryonie as a "beautiful woman and a loving mother" who was the center of their family. He shared how the couple had built a life together and how the sudden loss of his loved ones has left him "absolutely distraught." Jonathan’s words paint a picture of a family that was full of life, love, and promise, now torn apart by an unimaginable tragedy. His emotional statement highlights the depth of the loss and the struggle to comprehend the void left behind.

A Family Remembered: Memories of Love and Joy

The Gawith and Birtle families have released a poignant statement remembering Bryonie and her children, celebrating their lives and the joy they brought to those around them. Bryonie is described as the "life and soul of the party," a woman who loved music, singing, and dancing. She was a mother who dedicated her life to her children, and her family recalls how she would often sing and dance with Denisty, Oscar, and Aubree. The statement also shares touching memories of each child: Denisty, the confident and creative young girl; Oscar, the shy but cheeky boy with a contagious smile; and Aubree, the shy and bashful toddler with striking blue eyes and blonde hair. The family’s words paint a vivid picture of a loving and vibrant family whose lives were tragically cut short. They have expressed that no words can adequately describe their pain or fill the profound loss they now face.

The Criminal Proceedings and the Road Ahead

As the legal proceedings unfold, the community remains vigilant, seeking justice for the victims and their families. Sharaz Ali’s appearance in court marks a new phase in the investigation, while Mohammed Shabir and Calum Sunderland are set to stand trial next week. The charges against all three men underscore the seriousness of the allegations and the potentially lengthy legal battle ahead. The family and community will undoubtedly be watching closely as the case progresses, hoping for closure and accountability.

A Community in Mourning: Remembering the Victims

The loss of Bryonie, Denisty, Oscar, and Aubree has sent shockwaves through the community, leaving behind a void that cannot be filled. Their loved ones have shared heartfelt tributes, remembering them as a family that was full of life, love, and joy. Bryonie’s love for her children and her passion for music and dance were central to her life, and her children’s unique personalities and innocent charm have left an indelible mark on everyone who knew them. The tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment with loved ones. As the legal process continues, the community will continue to mourn the loss of this vibrant family and remember them with love and fond memories.