Fire Country’s Midseason Surprise Uncovers the Truth Behind Vince’s Death
Fire Country made its midseason comeback with an unexpected twist, revealing that a surprise character was responsible for Vince’s death.
The episode that aired on Friday, February 27, featured Tyler (Conor Sherry) admitting that he was the one who caused the fire that led to Bode’s (Max Thieriot) father Vince’s (Billy Burke) demise.
This revelation was particularly surprising, as Tyler’s stepdad Landon (Josh McDermitt) had been previously suspected — and believed to be guilty — of arson. In anticipation of the show’s midseason return, showrunner Tia Napolitano hinted at significant changes in the story.
“[You should] be worried [about the rest of the season]. We’ve got Bode and Tyler trapped in a fire shelter amidst a blaze. Those shelters are meant for one person, but there are two lives at stake,” Napolitano told Us Weekly exclusively in December 2025, one month before her exit from the CBS series was publicly announced. “And we’ve got Jake and his brother on the edge of a cliff. Just count how many times that vehicle tumbles over. Heads are going to hit hard surfaces.”
Napolitano teased that “those are not easy things to come back” from, adding, “We’ll watch our characters struggle to escape that situation.” She also indicated a “huge twist” is on the horizon for the midseason premiere airing on February 27.
“This twist will drastically affect Bode. He will have to fight hard to stay on his path of growth and progress, which fans have come to love. While he still battles with his challenges, he is on the way to becoming a role model that Tyler can aspire to be,” she stated. “Bode has made admirable choices — look at how far he has come.”
She went on: “Eve will find her footing with the new team at Three Roc. Sharon is learning to be more independent. Ruby — her mother — returns. There are plenty of surprises, twists, and unexpected developments stemming from the midseason premiere twist.”
Fire Country previously faced upheaval when news broke in April 2025 about budget cuts resulting in the departures of Burke, 58, and Stephanie Arcila. (Burke has not yet addressed his exit.)
“I was completely unaware. At the same time, I understand this is the nature of the industry, and I’ve accepted the ebb and flow throughout my journey, knowing that every closing door leads to another opening,” Arcila, 35, shared with Us in April. “Life constantly presents new opportunities, and resisting that can hinder us from experiencing what we love.”
Napolitano, for her part, stood by the decision.
Fire Country has seen many surprising changes in its cast and crew since its inception. The CBS series, which started in 2022, introduced viewers to Edgewater where inmate Bode (Max Thieriot) began his journey with the California Conservation Camp Program. As the second season unfolded, a backdoor pilot expanded the narrative world […]
“It’s a fire show — anyone can leave at any moment,” she remarked to Us in October. “While we’re losing some familiar faces, we’re also bringing in a slew of exciting guest stars. The revolving door opens to characters from Sharon’s past and newcomers who will introduce drama, secrets, and unexpected plot twists.”
Napolitano hinted at how the show aims to balance “adding excitement” while also honoring the memories of those lost.
“We’ve managed to honor — particularly Vince — since Gabriella has moved on to a fulfilling life. Although she’s no longer with us, we want to respect Vince’s legacy. We’re aiming to reflect optimism while navigating this sensitive topic,” she emphasized. “The season’s theme revolves around rising from the ashes and healing.”
Napolitano further elaborated: “What does recovery look like after such a loss? We’re really going to witness all characters rise to the occasion, celebrating Vince’s life and honoring the sacrifice he made.”
Fire Country airs on CBS on Fridays at 9 p.m. ET, with new episodes available for streaming the following day on Paramount+.
