A devastated father has shared his profound grief following the tragic death of his beloved eight-year-old daughter in a deliberate house fire in Huddersfield, started by her own mother. Gary Brereton paid an emotional tribute to his cherished daughter Iliza, describing her as a girl who "always had a smile on her face" and loved spending time with her siblings.
Remembering a Bright and Confident Girl
Gary fondly remembered Iliza as a kind-hearted and confident young girl who was passionate about school and took the lead in planning their special father-daughter outings. "I could never plan our time together as Iliza already had it mapped out and we would go and do as she requested," he reminisced during an inquest into the deaths of Iliza and her mother, Danielle Parkinson, following the 2024 house fire on Leeds Road, Huddersfield.
"She loved visiting her brothers and making good memories. I'm glad we had so many good times and pictures to look back on," Gary added, highlighting the precious moments they shared. He also noted Iliza's academic prowess, mentioning that she frequently received Star of the Week awards and even earned the Headteacher's Award, showcasing her dedication and bright spirit.
Tragic Circumstances and Coroner's Findings
Iliza tragically lost her life in hospital after the fire, which was deliberately started by her mother, Danielle. The coroner concluded that Danielle had taken her own life and unlawfully ended her daughter's life too, after uploading a 19-minute apology video on YouTube prior to the incident.
Missed Opportunities in Mental Health Care
Assistant coroner Caroline Chandler highlighted numerous "missed opportunities" in Danielle's treatment, despite her having disclosed suicidal thoughts. The coroner observed that medical staff had neglected to obtain the children's viewpoints and had failed to engage safeguarding services when protocol demanded it, pointing to systemic failures in mental health support.
Family's Statement and Ongoing Grief
After the inquest concluded, Iliza's relatives, including her father Gary, issued a statement: "Iliza tragically died in a house fire which was deliberately caused by Danielle Parkinson. She 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."
The statement continued: "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 expressed gratitude to the emergency services and all those who have shown compassion and support throughout this incredibly difficult time, while requesting privacy as they continue to grieve and remember Iliza.
Mental Health Support Resources
For mental health support, contact the Samaritans on 116 123, email them at jo@samaritans.org or visit samaritans.org to find your nearest branch. This tragedy underscores the critical importance of accessible mental health care and safeguarding measures to prevent such devastating outcomes.
