Burning Man Homicide Under Investigation After Attendee Found Dead During Effigy Burn

A man was found dead at the Burning Man festival on Saturday night, triggering a homicide investigation by the Pershing County Sheriff’s Office. The body was discovered in a pool of blood shortly before 9:15 p.m. local time as the iconic “Man” effigy began to burn in Black Rock City. Authorities, including deputies, Bureau of Land Management rangers, and Black Rock Rangers, secured the scene and are conducting interviews. Investigators from the Washoe County Forensic Science Division responded to collect evidence, and the body was sent to the medical examiner. Officials indicated the incident appears isolated and urged participants to remain vigilant. Burning Man organizers confirmed their cooperation with law enforcement and assured attendees that support services—including crisis teams and free Wi-Fi—are available across the site. The investigation remains ongoing as the festival concludes Monday.