Burning Man Festivalgoer Found Dead in ‘Pool of Blood’ as Wooden Effigy Began to Burn

A man was found dead at the annual Burning Man festival in the Nevada desert.

A Pershing County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO) deputy was notified of a man lying in “a pool of blood” on Saturday, Aug. 30, around 9:14 p.m. local time, as the festival’s symbolic “Man” wooden effigy began to burn, according to a press release from Sheriff Jerry Allen.

Deputies and Bureau of Land Management rangers responded to the Black Rock City venue and found one adult man “obviously deceased.”

Black Rock Rangers and the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office Forensic Science Division also reported to the scene. 

The man’s identity has not yet been confirmed. His body was taken to the Washoe County Medical Examiner’s Office, per the release.

“Although this act appears to be a singular crime, all participants should always be vigilant of their surroundings and acquaintances,” Allen said.

“There is no further information available at this time but it will be released as appropriate to provide for communication, while still preserving the integrity of the complicated investigation of a crime in a city which will be gone by the middle of the week,” the sheriff added.

A homicide investigation is underway. 

In a statement on the incident, Burning Man emphasized that the “safety and well-being of our community are paramount.”

The festival shared that there is free public WiFi at identified locations on the campsite, should attendees need to communicate with loved ones. In addition, the festival said there are support resources available on the event grounds.

“The Pershing County Sheriff’s office investigates all deaths that occur in its jurisdiction,” Burning Man said.

This year’s festival, which started on Aug. 24, is set to conclude on Sept. 1. 

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Last year, a woman died at the event after she was found unresponsive on the grounds. Emergency service personnel attempted lifesaving measures, but were “unsuccessful,” Burning Man said in a statement at the time.

“Our thoughts and condolences go out to the family and friends affected by this loss,” the statement continued.