Body Found At Burning Man Festival, Potential Homicide Theorized

A serious inquiry is now underway after a man was discovered dead at the Burning Man arts and music festival. The body was found on Saturday evening in what authorities are treating as a potential homicide. The victim’s name has not yet been released.

Local and federal law enforcement agencies in Nevada are leading the investigation. Deputies were called to the festival’s campsite at approximately 9:14 p.m. after receiving a report of a man on the ground who showed no vital signs. The discovery occurred as the event’s iconic wooden statue, known as “the Man”, was starting to burn, a lifelong tradition at the festival.

The man’s body was transported to the Washoe County Regional Medical Examiner’s Office for an autopsy to determine the cause of death. Pershing County Sheriff Jerry Allen confirmed that the victim’s identity was not immediately known. In a public statement, Sheriff Allen said that officers had spoken to several people near the scene of the crime.

“Although this act appears to be a solitary crime, all participants should always be mindful of their surroundings and the people they know“, Sheriff Allen advised. “There is no more information available at this time, but it will be made public as appropriate to provide for communication while also protecting the integrity of the complex investigation of a crime in a city that will be gone by the middle of the week.”

Organizers of the Burning Man event have also issued a statement, urging attendees not to interfere with the police activity. They also stated that resources and support are available to anyone who needs them. “The safety and well-being of our community are the most important things“, the statement read.

[H/T] The New York Times

*Image cover credit: @plainjane on Instagram