The Wire actor Bobby J Brown, who played a cop with his own name, has died in a tragic barn fire, aged 62.
Brown, who started as a professional boxer, was hailed as “a man of immense talent and incredible discipline” by his agent, Dr Albert Bramante, following his death on Tuesday (24 February).
The actor’s death was ruled an accident by the Maryland Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, with the cause listed as "diffuse thermal injury and smoke inhalation”.
St Mary's County press release said firefighters arrived on the scene to find the barn “nearly fully engulfed in fire”, which Brown had entered so he could jump-start a vehicle.
“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.”
His daughter Reina, who didn’t live with Brown, told People that her father had called for a family member to bring him a fire extinguisher as the flames spread.
”Everybody is still trying to process it – it's been difficult for all of us,” she said.
TMZ reported that Brown’s wife suffered severe burns on her hands while attempting to save his life. The family has requested privacy.
Shortly after becoming a champion in the boxing ring, winning five Golden Glove Championships, he attended acting school in New York and was cast by David Simon in his early TV shows Homicide: Life on the Street and The Corner.
The actor is best known for playing a Baltimore officer – named Bobby Brown – in David Simon’s acclaimed HBO drama The Wire. He made an uncredited appearance in season one before returning as a guest star in seasons four and five, appearing in 12 episodes in total.
He also appeared in Law & Order: Special Victims Unit as well as Simon’s most recent TV show, We Own This City.
"He transitioned from a champion in the boxing ring to a powerful presence on screen with a grace and dedication that inspired everyone at the agency," a statement announcing Brown’s death read.
"He was a true professional and an even better human being. We are heartbroken by this loss."
The actor is survived by his wife and two daughters.
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