Tragedy Strikes Again: Bradford Blaze Suspect Dies in Custody
Shock ripples through Bradford as Mohammed Shabir, 45, accused of the deadly house fire that killed a mother and her three kids, has died while in custody just before his trial.
Horrific Westbury Road Fire Claims Four Lives
Last August, Bryonie Gawith, 29, and her three young children — nine-year-old Denisty, five-year-old Oscar, and toddler Aubree Birtle, 22 months — were tragically killed in a horrific blaze in Bradford. Shabir, alongside co-defendants Sharaz Ali and Calum from Sunderland, denied charges of murder and attempted murder of Bryonie’s sister, Antonia Gawith.
Death in Custody Sparks Investigation
A Ministry of Justice spokesperson confirmed Shabir, from Grove in Keighley, passed away in hospital on Wednesday while detained at HMP Leeds.
“As with all deaths in custody, the Prisons and Probation Ombudsman will investigate,” the spokesperson said.
Other Suspects Face Trial as Community Mourns
Shabir’s death halts his part of the November trial, but co-defendants Sharaz Ali, seriously injured in the fire, and Calum from Sunderland still face charges at Bradford Crown Court. The community remains stunned as the investigation and legal battles continue into the blaze that claimed four innocent lives.
