The final moments of Bobby J Brown, the actor best known for his role in The Wire, have been detailed in a 911 call audio released following his death in a barn fire on 24 February. The 62-year-old died from diffuse thermal injury and smoke inhalation, according to the Maryland Office of the Chief Medical Examiner.
The audio, obtained by TMZ, captures the desperate efforts of Brown's wife, Arlene, who called emergency services to report that her husband was trapped in the barn. She explained that a fire had broken out when he attempted to start his old Cadillac. First responders launched a 'nursing operation' to get water to the house, with the dispatcher suggesting the use of a fireboat due to proximity to water, while noting 'exposure issues with two vehicles'.
As fire engines arrived, responders were heard discussing the tight space and requesting room for special services. They managed to douse the fire, but it spread to nearby grass. One responder said, 'Command to the entire group. Are you able to reposition that one hand line over here to the grass here? It's spreading.'
Brown's daughter confirmed his death on Thursday, revealing that he had called a relative for a fire extinguisher, but by the time they arrived, the barn was engulfed. Brown was also known for roles in Law & Order: SVU, Veep, and We Own This City. His final onscreen role will be in the pilot of The Sessions.
Tributes poured in from fans, with one writing, 'Rest in peace, legend. He was such a good actor.' Another said, 'It’s heartbreaking to hear this news. His work left a lasting mark on television.' Brown's death follows that of his The Wire co-star James Ransone, who died in December at age 46.
