‘Pool Of Blood’: Attendee Found Dead At Burning Man Festival

The Pershing County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO) launched a homicide investigation into the death of a festivalgoer found lying in “a pool of blood” Saturday at 9:14 p.m.

The body of a white male was found “obviously deceased” in a large, gruesome pool of blood at the annual Burning Man festival held in the Nevada desert. Sheriff Jerry Allen issued a statement claiming the deceased was located just as the festival’s symbolic “Man” wooden effigy began to burn, according to People. Officials asserted they believe this to be a “singular crime.”

Deputies and Bureau of Land Management rangers responded to the Black Rock City venue where they located the victim. The identity of the deceased male was not confirmed, and no further information about the victim was disclosed.

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

“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 noted.

Burning Man issued a statement asserting that the “safety and well-being of our community are paramount.”

Organizers encouraged fans to use their public WiFi to contact loved ones, and offered support resources on the event grounds for those who required assistance after learning about the incident.

Officers interviewed individuals at the scene in hopes of learning more about the circumstances leading up to the gruesome killing.

This year’s festival started August 24 and runs through to September 1. (RELATED: REPORT: Over 100 People Allegedly Stabbed With Syringes At France’s Music Festival)

This is not the first fatality linked to the Burning Man. A woman was found unresponsive on the grounds during the 2024 festival.  Emergency service personnel attempted lifesaving measures but despite their best efforts she was pronounced dead.