Top News

A heartbroken father has expressed his grief following the tragic death of his "always smiling" daughter in a house fire deliberately started by her own mother.

Gary Brereton delivered an emotional tribute to his beloved eight-year-old daughter Iliza, describing a girl who "always had a smile on her face" and adored spending time with her siblings. He lovingly described her as a compassionate, self-assured young girl who was enthusiastic about school and took charge of organising their special father-daughter adventures.

During an inquest into the deaths of Iliza and her mother, Danielle, Gary said: "I could never plan our time together as Iliza already had it mapped out and we would go and do as she requested."

"She loved visiting her brothers and making good memories. I'm glad we had so many good times and pictures to look back on."

Iliza and Danielle died following the 2024 house fire on Leeds Road, Huddersfield in West Yorkshire. Gary also emphasised Iliza's academic excellence, noting that she regularly earned Star of the Week and even secured the Headteacher's Award, YorkshireLive reports.

Iliza tragically died in hospital following the fire, which was intentionally set by her mother, Danielle. The coroner determined that Danielle had taken her own life and unlawfully killed her daughter as well, after posting a 19-minute apology video on YouTube before the incident.

Assistant coroner Caroline Chandler identified multiple "missed opportunities" in Danielle's care, despite her having revealed suicidal intentions. The coroner noted that medical personnel had failed to seek the children's perspectives and had not involved safeguarding services when procedures required it.

Following the conclusion of the inquest, Iliza's family, including her father Gary, released a statement: "Iliza tragically died in a house fire which was deliberately caused by Danielle Parkinson. She (Iliza) was a much loved daughter, sister, granddaughter, niece and cousin. Her loss had a devastating and life-changing impact on her family, particularly her father Gary.

"Gary has spoken of his profound grief and heartbreak he has endured since losing Iliza in such a tragic and senseless manner, a pain that he continues to bear every day. While the process has helped to clarify the circumstances surrounding Iliza's death it can not ease the immense loss felt by our family. Gary and the family would like to thank the emergency services and all those who have shown compassion and support throughout this incredibly difficult time. We now ask that our privacy is respected as we continue to grieve and remember Iliza."