Two Men Get Life Over Mum and Three Kids’ Shocking Bradford Blaze Killings
Friday 6 March 2026 – Justice served today at Doncaster Crown Court as Sharaz Ali, 40, from Langbar Avenue, was slapped with a whole life order for murdering a mum and her three children. His accomplice, Calum Sunderland, 27, from Calton Street, received at least 18 years for four counts of manslaughter.
Family’s Heartbreaking Statement
“Today, the judge sentenced the monsters who killed our beautiful family, Bryonie, and her three children Denisty, Oscar, and Aubree. But no sentence can heal the pain they caused. No sentence brings back their laughter, hugs, or love. Four hearts that should still beat are gone.
We ache daily with the emptiness they left behind. We carry them in every heartbeat, every memory. Bryonie, Denisty, Oscar, Aubree – forever loved, forever missed, forever young.”
Terrifying Arson Attack in Bradford
Back in August 2024, Bryonie Gawith, 29, and her three children – Denisty (9), Oscar (5), and toddler Aubree (22 months) – died in a brutal house fire on Westbury Road, Bradford. The blaze was no accident.
Sharaz Ali and Calum Sunderland plotted the crime. They filled a petrol can in Keighley, then drove to Bryonie’s home in the early hours of 21 August. Sunderland kicked down the door while Ali doused the house with petrol and set it ablaze.
The house quickly erupted in flames trapping the family inside. Despite heroic efforts by emergency crews, all four perished from their injuries.
Manhunt and Arrests
- Ali was caught at the scene but seriously injured and hospitalised for months.
- Sunderland was found hiding in a Keighley basement after intensive CCTV investigation.
- Both men were charged and later convicted at Doncaster Crown Court.
Police Speak Out
“Bryonie and her children would still be alive if it weren’t for the horrific and callous actions of Ali and Sunderland,” said Detective Chief Inspector Stacey Atkinson.
“They left a family utterly helpless while their aunt watched in horror. The emergency services did everything they could, but nothing could save them. While nothing can bring them back, today’s convictions bring some justice.”
Family Pay Tribute to Their Lost Loved Ones
The family of Bryonie released a moving tribute:
“We thank everyone who helped bring justice. But nothing fills the deafening silence where their laughter should be. Bryonie was the glue holding us together – a devoted mother and bright light in every room. Her children held boundless promise stolen too soon.
Denisty was a budding artist and confident soul; Oscar was a fighter from birth; little Aubree’s hugs could melt any sadness. Their futures were cruelly stolen. Our hearts will never be whole again. They remain forever young, forever loved, forever missed.”
