In a devastating turn of events, a tragic house fire has claimed the lives of a beloved mother and her three young children in Keighley, West Yorkshire. The fire, which broke out on Wednesday morning, left the community in shock and mourning.
The Victims: A Family Lost Too Soon
The fire took the lives of 29-year-old Bryonie Gawith, who was pronounced dead at the scene, along with her three children—nine-year-old Denisty Birtle, 22-month-old Aubree Birtle, and five-year-old Oscar Birtle. While Bryonie’s life was lost in the flames, her children tragically passed away later in the hospital.
Ongoing Investigation and Arrests
As the investigation into the fire continues, West Yorkshire Police have confirmed the arrest of four more individuals in connection with the incident. Among those arrested is a 25-year-old man, detained on suspicion of murder and attempted murder. Two others, a 54-year-old woman and a 42-year-old man, were also taken into custody on suspicion of assisting an offender. A 44-year-old man has also been arrested on similar charges.
The police previously arrested a 36-year-old man last week on suspicion of murder and attempted murder, and he remains in custody. Another man, 45, was arrested but later released without charges. A third suspect, a 39-year-old man who was the first to be arrested, remains in the hospital with life-threatening injuries. Authorities have revealed that he is the ex-partner of someone who was visiting the house at the time of the fire.
A Family’s Heartfelt Tribute
In the wake of this heartbreaking tragedy, Bryonie’s family has released a touching tribute to her and her children. They described Bryonie as a “joyful, bubbly, beautiful woman” who was full of life and deeply loved by everyone who knew her. “Music was a big part of her life,” her family shared. “She loved singing and dancing, and she would always be singing and dancing with her children, whom she adored.”
The family also spoke of the children with deep affection, saying, “Oggy had the cheekiest smile, though he was a shy boy. Strawbs was bashful, with big blue eyes and blonde hair, and Chuch was a beautiful, confident, outgoing, and creative young girl.”
The family added, “We are still trying to comprehend what has happened to our beautiful family. No words can describe how we are feeling and no words could ever make up for the profound loss we are now faced with.”
Plea for Privacy
As they grapple with their grief, Bryonie’s family has asked for privacy and respect during this difficult time. They expressed their gratitude for the outpouring of support and kind words but requested space to come to terms with the unimaginable loss they have suffered.
They also asked for thoughts and support for the children’s father, Jonathan, who has been deeply affected by the tragedy. In his own statement, Jonathan said, “I am absolutely distraught at the sudden loss of my fiancée, Bryonie, and our three beautiful children. We had a good life together, and I loved them with all my heart. I cannot imagine life without them. They will never be forgotten and will always be in my heart.”
Police Appeal for Information
As the investigation continues, West Yorkshire Police have appealed to anyone with information about the fire to come forward. Detectives from the Homicide and Major Enquiry Team are urging those with any knowledge of the incident to contact them via Live Chat or by calling 101, quoting Operation Pockliffe. Information can also be provided anonymously through Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.