Police investigating the murder of a woman and her three children in Bradford can now confirm the names of those who have tragically died.
Multiple enquiries remain ongoing today by the Homicide and Major Enquiry Team (HMET) into a fatal house fire which took place just after 2am today (August 21) on Westbury Road in Bradford.
Superintendent Lucy Leadbeater of Bradford Police read the below update at the scene today: “Shortly after 2am this morning, officers were called to a report of a house fire on Westbury Road in Bradford.
“On officer’s arrival it was confirmed that a 29-year-old woman named Bryonie Gawith had died at the scene.
“Her three children, nine-year-old Denisty Birtle, five -year-old Oscar Birtle and 22-month-old Aubree Birtle were taken to hospital where sadly all three died from their injuries.
“Detectives from our Homicide and Major Enquiry team have launched a murder investigation into the fire.
“Whilst enquiries are in their early stages, we believe that the fire was started deliberately, and that this incident was domestic related. A 39-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder and is currently in a critical condition in hospital.
“Specially trained officers are supporting the family, and my neighbourhood officers are in the area carrying out reassurance patrols.
“I would appeal to anyone who was in the Westbury Road area at the time of the incident or who has CCTV or doorbell footage to come forward.
“Anyone with information that could help our investigation, I would urge you to contact us via 101 quoting log 107 of 21st of August.”
“Information can always be given anonymously via the independent Crimestoppers charity. “Our thoughts are with the family, their friends and the wider community at this sad time.”
