Heartbroken headteacher remembers children as “full of character” following tragic house fire
A tragic house fire in Bradford has left a community in mourning, with tributes pouring in for Bryonie Gawith and her three children, who lost their lives in the blaze. Bryonie, 29, died at the scene, while her children, Denisty, nine, Oscar, five, and Aubree Birtle, 22 months, later passed away in hospital from their injuries.
The two older children attended Home Farm Primary School, where headteacher Joanne Poole described them as “lovely pupils” who were “full of character” and had “bright futures ahead of them.”
“Our hearts are broken by the tragic passing of Denisty, Oscar, Aubree, and their mum, Bryonie,” said Ms Poole, who spoke on behalf of the school community. “We are a close-knit family at Home Farm, and this is devastating news that is hard to comprehend.”
Denisty and Oscar were remembered as happy children who embraced school life, and the school was eagerly anticipating Aubree joining them in the future. Ms Poole reflected on Bryonie’s positivity and cheerfulness, saying, “Mum Bryonie was always cheerful and positive – even first thing in the morning.”
The school has pledged to support children, staff, and families affected by the tragedy. “Our thoughts are with the relatives and friends of Denisty, Oscar, Aubree, and Bryonie,” Ms Poole added.
West Yorkshire Police are investigating the fire, which is believed to be “domestic-related.” A 39-year-old man, the ex-partner of a woman visiting the family, has been arrested on suspicion of murder and is currently in critical condition in hospital.
