DYER COUNTY, Tenn. — A deadly house fire early Saturday morning has claimed the life of a 63-year-old man in Dyer County, prompting an ongoing investigation by local and state authorities. The fire broke out near the 200 block of Pecan Street, where emergency crews rushed to the scene amid freezing temperatures and found a home engulfed in flames.
The Dyer County Medical Examiner’s Office identified the victim as Jerry Brown, 63. Officials said Brown was pronounced dead at the scene, and his body will be transported to Nashville for an autopsy to determine the official cause of death. Authorities have not released further details about how the fire started or where inside the home Brown was located.
Dyer County Sheriff Jeff Box expressed condolences to Brown’s family and friends, calling the loss devastating. In a statement, Sheriff Box said his thoughts and prayers are with the loved ones affected by the tragedy as they face an incredibly difficult time. He also emphasized the emotional toll such incidents have on families and the broader community.
Multiple fire departments and emergency crews responded quickly to battle the blaze. Tankers from Finley, Lenox, Fowlkes, and Dyersburg were dispatched to the scene, along with Medical Center EMS. Deputies from the Dyer County Sheriff’s Office, the county arson investigator, and the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation Fire Investigation Unit are now working alongside the Dyer County Fire Department to determine the cause and origin of the fire. Officials confirmed that no firefighters were injured during the response.
Sheriff Box also praised the dedication of first responders and volunteers who worked in dangerous conditions to control the fire and protect surrounding homes. He described their actions as commendable and vital to community safety, especially given the frigid weather and hazardous circumstances firefighters faced while responding.
Fire officials say the tragedy serves as a serious reminder about the importance of fire safety in the home. Dyer County Fire Chief James Medling urged residents to ensure they have working smoke alarms in every room, carbon monoxide detectors installed, and fire extinguishers easily accessible. He also warned residents never to plug space heaters into extension cords, noting that improper use of heating equipment can quickly turn deadly. The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities say additional updates will be released as more information becomes available.
