'The Wire' actor Bobby J. Brown dies aged 62 after accidental barn fire

The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner confirmed that Brown suffered smoke inhalation and diffuse thermal injury

Bobby J. Brown, best known for his appearances in The Wire, has died aged 62 following an accidental barn fire.

The actor died on Wednesday due to smoke inhalation after becoming trapped in a blaze at a barn, his daughter told TMZ. The Maryland Office of the Chief Medical Examiner confirmed that Brown suffered smoke inhalation and diffuse thermal injury.

Photo: Office of the Maryland State Fire Marshal

According to reports, the fire was deemed accidental and began after Brown attempted to jump-start a vehicle inside the barn. He called for a family member to bring a fire extinguisher, but the flames had already engulfed the structure by the time help arrived.

Brown’s agent, Albert Bramante, paid tribute following his death, stating, “I am upset and saddened. He was such a good actor and person. He was totally dedicated to the craft of acting and was a joy to work with.”

Brown made several guest appearances as Officer Bobby Brown in the HBO series The Wire, which aired from 2002 to 2008. He also appeared in We Own This City and had roles in Law & Order: Special Victims Unit. His film credits included the 2008 feature From Within and the 2023 film Mailman, which marked his most recent screen role.

Born in Washington, DC, Brown grew up in Pennsylvania. Before pursuing acting, he competed as an amateur boxer and secured five Golden Glove Championships. He later trained at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York before launching his television career.

He is survived by his son, Bobby Brown II, and his daughter.