Actor Bobby J. Brown, widely recognised for his role in The Wire, has tragically died following a barn fire in Maryland — and reportedly made a desperate request for help shortly before his death.
On Thursday (February 26), Brown’s representative confirmed that the actor had died at the age of 62.
Paying tribute to the actor, his agent, Albert Bramante, said in a statement: “Bobby J. Brown was a uniquely talented actor and a man of great character. From his deep roots as a Golden Gloves champion to his impactful performances on screen, Bobby brought an unmistakable authenticity to everything he did.
“He was a dedicated professional and a true joy to represent. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.”
Brown appeared in 12 episodes of The Wire across multiple seasons. He also portrayed a police officer in Law & Order: Special Victims Unit and directed two films, Tear the Roof Off and Off the Chain.
In comments shared with TMZ, Brown’s daughter said her father died on Tuesday. The outlet reports that the cause of death was diffuse thermal injury and smoke inhalation, and that it has been ruled an accident.
According to reports, the blaze started in the barn after Brown attempted to jumpstart a vehicle. As the fire spread, his wife Arlene reportedly tried to rescue him and sustained severe burns.
FOX5 reports that she was taken to MedStar Washington Hospital Center for treatment.
As the incident unfolded, Brown is said to have contacted relatives and asked them to bring a fire extinguisher. Tragically, family members arrived too late to help.
Brown is survived by his wife and their two daughters.
A press release from St Mary’s County provided additional information about the fire on Tuesday.
Part of it read: “On February 24, 2026, just after 10:00 p.m., firefighters with Leornardtown, Mechanicsville, and several other nearby fire departments responded to 36111 Roosevelt Boulevard for a reported barn fire with entrapment. 911 callers advised that a barn was on fire, and a person was trapped inside.
“Firefighters arrived to find a 50-by-100-foot barn nearly fully engulfed in fire. Family members on scene confirmed that one individual was still inside the structure. After the fire was brought under control, firefighters located a deceased male victim within the barn.”
Brown was pronounced dead at the scene.
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