Explosion and death under investigation in DeKalb County

DEKALB COUNTY, Al. (WDEF) —  Authorities are investigating a death that occurred early Thursday morning in DeKalb County.

The incident occurred in the 45000 block of Highway 75 near the Painter community.

Around 1:30 a.m. on May 22, 2025, Dekalb County 911 received a call about an explosion at a residence.

When first responders arrived, they discovered 63-year-old James Arnold Wilson deceased from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound.

Crews also found the residence fully engulfed in flames.

Fire crews worked to contain the blaze while law enforcement secured the scene.

Once safe, investigators determined the fire was caused by an intentional explosion.