Man Found Dead in Suspected Homicide During Burning Man Festival in Nevada Desert

A man has been found dead at the Burning Man festival

Authorities in Nevada are investigating a suspected homicide at the Burning Man festival after a man was found dead in a pool of blood on Saturday night.

The body was discovered around 9 p.m. while the festival’s signature wooden effigy, known as “The Man,” was being set ablaze in Black Rock City, the makeshift community built each year for the iconic arts and music event.

Sheriff’s deputies confirmed the victim was “a single white adult male lying on the ground, obviously deceased.” Emergency responders pronounced him dead at the scene before transferring the body to the Washoe County Medical Examiner’s Office for autopsy and identification.

Police cordoned off the area where the discovery was made and questioned several festivalgoers. The Pershing County Sheriff’s Office worked alongside land management officials and Burning Man’s own Black Rock Rangers to establish a security perimeter.

Tens of thousands of festivalgoers attend the event every year

In a statement, the sheriff’s office noted: “Although this act appears to be a singular crime, all participants should always be vigilant of their surroundings and acquaintances. 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 festival, held annually in Nevada’s Black Rock Desert, began last Sunday and was scheduled to conclude on Monday. Organizers said they were fully cooperating with law enforcement: “The Pershing County Sheriff’s Office will be the primary source of further information. If you are in Black Rock City, do not interfere with law enforcement activity.”

Tens of thousands of people travel to the desert each year for Burning Man, which is known for its blend of wilderness camping, art installations, and experimental performances. One of its most iconic traditions is the burning of the towering wooden effigy at the heart of the gathering.