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 festivalâs iconic wooden effigy was set ablaze in Black Rock City.
According to the Pershing County Sheriffâs Office, a festivalgoer spotted the man âlying in a pool of bloodâ 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 Examinerâs Office for autopsy.
Police confirmed they are treating the incident as a murder investigation. âAlthough this act appears to be a singular crime, all participants should always be vigilant of their surroundings and acquaintances,â the sheriffâs 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.
âThis process is still ongoing, and the portion of the âCityâ where this occurred will have heavy law enforcement presence until the scene can be released,â the sheriffâs 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 Sheriffâs Office will provide updates as the investigation develops.
Burning Man, which draws tens of thousands annually to Nevadaâs Black Rock Desert, is known for its experimental art displays, music, and temporary âcityâ community. This yearâs festival has now been marred by the rare but shocking violent death of an attendee.
