Disasters like fires are something everyone worries about in the back of their minds — but to experience one firsthand and to have it be an intentional act of arson has to be one of the hardest things to grapple with. Sadly, two children in Birmingham, England, will have a lifetime of wrestling with that very reality.
Two strangers recently claimed the children’s father’s life, according to Birmingham Live. Daniel Gardner, 37, was at his home on Saxons Way on September 19, 2025, when a house fire broke out. West Midlands Police shared in a statement that they, along with emergency services, arrived at the property shortly after 1:10 a.m., and they found Gardner seriously injured. He was taken to the hospital but, sadly, he died from his injuries a “short time later.”
@7newsuk Fire Tragedy 37-Year-Old Daniel Gardner Dies After Birmingham House Fire Arrests Made #7newsuk #Birmingham #HouseFire #JusticeForDaniel #DevotedDad #FireInvestigation #MurderProbe #FamilyTribute #UKNews #CommunityMourning #StopArson ♬ original sound – 7 News
Police arrested an unnamed 18-year-old on suspicion of murder; he remains in custody. Additionally, 47-year-old Stephen Dale — who had previously been arrested — has now been formally charged with murder.
While police continue to appeal for information, they’re also supporting Gardner’s family during this unimaginably difficult time.
“Daniel’s family are being supported by our specialist officers and have been kept up to date with these latest developments,” police noted in a statement, which also shared some heartbreaking words from Gardner’s grieving family.
“Daniel, devoted son, daddy, brother, and nephew. Words cannot describe the unbearable pain and devastation we all feel. You gave everything and never expected anything in return,” the family’s statement began. “Gives me comfort that you are with Nan & Grandad now who will once again look after you for me. My heart will always be broken but I hope I can find the strength to carry on without you. All my love is with you Dan. Miss you every minute of the day. Mum & Nick Ryan & Liv Elliot & Charlie Lynn & Phi.”
Police are urging anyone with more information to come forward as authorities try to piece together the motive behind such a tragic crime.
