Homicide investigation launched after man found dead in “pool of blood” at Burning Man
The unidentified victim was discovered at just after 9:PM on the penultimate day of the festival, just as crowds had gathered for the annual burning of the wooden effigy.
A homicide investigation has been launched after a man was found dead at Burning Man on Saturday, August 30.
The Pershing County Sheriff’s Office said in a statement (via USA Today) that the man was discovered just as festivities were kicking off for the annual burning of the wooden effigy.
The body was found at around 9:14PM on the penultimate day of Burning Man 2025, when an attendee told a deputy that they had discovered a man “lying in a pool of blood”.
Officers said the man was “obviously deceased” after discovery. His body was transported to the Washoe County Medical Examiner’s Office for further investigation.
Authorities believe that the incident was a “singular crime”, but told attendees to remain “vigilant”. They also said that the incident is complicated since the city where it takes place will be “gone by the middle of the week”.
“The safety and well-being of our community are paramount,” Burning Man said in a statement. “If you are in Black Rock City, do not interfere with law enforcement activity.”
The identity of the man has not been revealed, though Pershing County Sheriff Jerry Allen said that “appropriate communication” will be provided as the investigation moves forward.
USA Today reports that, while this is the first suspected homicide at the annual festival, eight other deaths have been confirmed since 1996. This marks the third death in three years at Burning Man, with two fatalities reported in both 2023 and 2024.
Burning Man 2025 began on Sunday, August 24, and got off to a “chaotic” start when it was affected by dust storms, thunder, 50mph winds, and flood warnings within its opening few days.
A Burning Man spokesperson told NBC News that four minor injuries were reported as a result of the wind and dust storms. The festival comes to an end today (Monday, September 1).
Gemma Ross is Mixmag's Associate Digital Editor, follow her on Twitter
