Bobby J. Brown, the character actor recognized for his role in the acclaimed HBO crime drama The Wire, has died at the age of 62 following a fire in Maryland.
According to family members, Brown was inside a barn on his property on February 24 when the structure caught fire. He was reportedly attempting to jump-start a vehicle when the blaze began.
Authorities later confirmed that the cause of death was due to injuries sustained in the fire.
Fire Ruled Accidental by Officials
The Maryland Office of the Chief Medical Examiner determined that Brown died from diffuse thermal injuries and smoke inhalation. The incident has officially been ruled an accident.
Family members said Brown called out for a fire extinguisher as flames spread rapidly. By the time relatives reached the barn, the building was already engulfed. His wife reportedly sustained serious burns while attempting to rescue him.
From Amateur Boxing to Acclaimed Television Actor
Born Robert Joseph Brown in Washington, D.C., the actor began his early career as an amateur boxer before transitioning into acting.
His most recognized television role came as patrolman Bob Brown on The Wire, the groundbreaking series created by David Simon. The show, widely regarded as one of the greatest crime dramas in television history, ran for five seasons on HBO.
Brown appeared in multiple episodes throughout the series’ run.
Bobby J. Brown’s Other Film and Television Appearances
Beyond The Wire, Bobby J. Brown built a steady career across film and television.
He appeared in:
- We Own This City
- Homicide: Life on the Street
- Law & Order: Special Victims Unit
His film credits included:
- City by the Sea
- My One and Only
- Fishbowl
In addition to acting, Bobby J. Brown directed documentaries, including Off the Chain and Tear the Roof Off: The Untold Story of Parliament Funkadelic.
Another Loss for ‘The Wire’ Community
Brown’s death comes months after the passing of fellow The Wire actor James Ransone, marking another loss connected to the celebrated series.
Tributes from fans and colleagues have begun circulating on social media, remembering Brown for his contributions to one of television’s most influential dramas.
