UPDATE: In a shocking turn of events at Doncaster Crown Court, Sharaz Ali, 40, accused of murdering Bryonie Gawith and her three children, testified he intended to end his own life by setting himself on fire at their Bradford home. This harrowing revelation comes as the trial continues into the tragic incident that occurred on August 21, 2022.
During this gripping trial, Ali described how he arrived at the Gawith home on Westbury Road with a canister of petrol, claiming his plan was to ignite himself in front of his ex-partner, Antonia Gawith. His testimony highlights a deeply disturbing mindset, fueled by cocaine and alcohol, as he recounted the events leading up to the fire.
In a chilling message sent days before the deadly blaze, Ali warned Antonia about impending harm, stating, “I know who caused all this in my life… the house, the family, the kids will all feel it.” He later claimed this was an “empty threat,” generated by his emotional turmoil after their separation.
Ali testified he had never harmed himself before that day, stating, “I don’t know, I wasn’t thinking straight. I just wanted to finish things.” He detailed how he arranged for Calum Sunderland, another accused in the case, to assist in filling the petrol canister without disclosing his intentions.
As the court heard, when Ali arrived at Bryonie’s home, he engaged in a physical struggle over the petrol canister with Bryonie, who was reportedly trying to protect her family. “I heard Antonia shout… I walked in the house with petrol,” he recalled, indicating the chaotic scene that unfolded.
Ali admitted to lighting the petrol, stating he wanted to witness Antonia’s reaction. “I wanted to do it in front of her… Because I love her and I want to see her,” he testified. Tragically, he was unaware of the devastating consequences that followed, as Bryonie and her children, Denisty, Oscar, and Aubree Birtle, lost their lives in the ensuing fire.
The court also heard how Ali refused medical treatment after the incident, expressing his desire to die. He later fell unconscious and was placed in a coma. When questioned about his self-harming video sent to Antonia, Ali denied it was a manipulative tactic, insisting it was a desperate expression of his emotional state.
Legal representatives have sharply scrutinized Ali’s actions, with defense barrister Mohammed Nawaz KC questioning his intentions. Meanwhile, prosecutor Nicholas Worsley KC suggested Ali’s behavior might have been an attempt to control Antonia emotionally.
As this tragic case unfolds, it raises serious questions about mental health, relationships, and the devastating effects of domestic turmoil. The trial continues, with jurors grappling with the complexities of this heartbreaking situation.
Stay updated with the latest developments in this case as it continues to unfold.
