An emergency services recording has revealed how Bobby J Brown's wife desperately attempted to rescue him after he became trapped in a barn fire. The Wire star died in tragic circumstances on Tuesday, February 24, following the devastating blaze.
Bobby, aged 62 at the time of his death, was attempting to jump-start his vehicle inside the barn when he was overwhelmed by smoke. The Maryland Office of the Chief Medical Examiner subsequently confirmed that his cause of death was diffuse thermal injury and smoke inhalation. Audio from a 999 call captures a dispatcher communicating with emergency services as they tried to save the television actor. The call recording on TMZ reveals how Arlene had telephoned to report that Bobby was "trapped" in the barn. She allegedly stated that a fire erupted when he tried "to start up his old Cadillac". The emergency crews initiated a "nursing operation", whereby they would deliver water to the property, reports The Mirror.
The dispatcher suggested they utilise a fireboat given their proximity to water but observed that they had "exposure issues with two vehicles" as fire engines reached the location.
They could subsequently be heard informing first responders that the available space was "tight" and requested that they "leave room for the special services".
Responders managed to deliver water to the fire and began extinguishing it, but as they did, the flames spread to adjacent grass. One was heard stating on the call: "Command to the entire group. Are you able to reposition that one hand line over here to the grass here? It's spreading."
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The death of actor Bobby was announced by his daughter on Thursday. The family disclosed that Bobby had phoned a relative for a fire extinguisher after the blaze began, but by the time the relative arrived, the barn was already consumed by flames.
Bobby was most recognised for his role in HBO series The Wire, portraying Officer Bobby Brown. He also featured in Law and Order: SVU, Veep and We Own This City. His final screen appearance will be as Mr Fouchet in the pilot episode of The Sessions.
Following the announcement of his death, fans inundated social media with tributes. One penned: "Rest in peace, legend. He was such a good actor."
Another expressed: "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."
