Hollywood actor Bobby J. Brown, known for his role in acclaimed TV series The Wire, has died in a fire aged 62

A Hollywood actor, known for his role in the acclaimed HBO series The Wire, has died in a fire.

Bobby J. Brown died earlier this week at the age of 62 after being caught in a barn fire.

The star, best known for playing Officer Bobby Brown on The Wire, was reportedly trying to jump‑start a vehicle inside the barn when the fire began, as reported by TMZ.

Brown’s daughter told publication that her dad died of of smoke inhalation on Wednesday (February 25), adding that although he suffered severe burns in the blaze these injuries are not what caused his death.

The Maryland Office of the Chief Medical Examiner confirmed the star’s cause of death as diffuse thermal injury and smoke inhalation and ruled the incident an accident, according to TMZ.

Brown had called a relative for a fire extinguisher after the blaze ignited, but by the time help arrived the barn was already fully ablaze, according to his family.

Actor Bobby J. Brown, best known for playing Officer Bobby Brown on The Wire, has died in a barn fire. Photo by Instagram.placeholder image
Actor Bobby J. Brown, best known for playing Officer Bobby Brown on The Wire, has died in a barn fire. Photo by Instagram. | Instagram

Audio from a 911 call obtained by TMZ reveals that Brown’s wife Arlene had called to report that her husband was "trapped" in the barn.

Brown will be remembered for The Wire, but also for his roles on Law & Order: SVU and We Own This City. Brown’s daughter told TMZ that her dad was a devoted Jehovah’s Witness and added that arrangements for his funeral service are being made.

Many fans have taken to social media to express their sorrow at his passing, and also post tributes. One said: “It’s heartbreaking to hear this news. His work left a lasting mark on television and touched fans across the globe. My thoughts are with his family, friends, and everyone who admired his talent."

Related topics:
Telling news your way
Follow us
© 2026 Iconic Media Group Ltd. All rights reserved.Cookie SettingsTerms and ConditionsPrivacy notice