A man attending the Burning Man festival in Nevada was found dead Saturday night in what authorities are investigating as a homicide. The discovery was made as the festival’s iconic wooden effigy was set ablaze in Black Rock City.
According to the Pershing County Sheriff’s Office, a festivalgoer spotted the man “lying in a pool of blood” around 9 p.m. and immediately alerted a deputy. The victim was pronounced dead at the scene, and his body was transported to the Washoe County Medical Examiner’s Office for autopsy.
Police confirmed they are treating the incident as a murder investigation. “Although this act appears to be a singular crime, all participants should always be vigilant of their surroundings and acquaintances,” the sheriff’s office said in a statement.
Authorities established a perimeter around the crime scene, which remains heavily secured while investigators gather evidence. Burning Man organizers said the Black Rock Rangers are cooperating fully with law enforcement.
“This process is still ongoing, and the portion of the ‘City’ where this occurred will have heavy law enforcement presence until the scene can be released,” the sheriff’s office added.
Despite the ongoing investigation, the festival has continued as scheduled and is set to conclude Monday. Organizers cautioned attendees not to interfere with law enforcement operations, stating that the Pershing County Sheriff’s Office will provide updates as the investigation develops.
Burning Man, which draws tens of thousands annually to Nevada’s Black Rock Desert, is known for its experimental art displays, music, and temporary “city” community. This year’s festival has now been marred by the rare but shocking violent death of an attendee.
