Local authorities are asking for the public’s help in identifying a man found dead at the Burning Man Festival on Saturday night. The Pershing County Sheriff’s Office described the man as a middle-aged white male, approximately 6 feet tall, with short brown hair and facial hair, estimated to be between 35 and 40 years old.
“We also are seeking information regarding any suspect identifiers for any person who would commit such a heinous crime against another human being,” Pershing County Sheriff Jerry Allen said in a news release on Monday.
The suspected homicide took place near the intersection of the 8 and 8:45 o’clock area and I Street at Black Rock City, a temporary settlement created each year for the festival in the Black Rock Desert of northwest Nevada, about 90 miles north of Reno.
“No information is too small to disregard,” Allen said, “so do not hesitate to contact my office.”
Anyone with information can reach out to the sheriff’s office by calling 775-273-2641 or 775-273-5111. Callers should reference case number 25-318 and ask for investigator Josh Nicholson.
The body was discovered at around 9:14 p.m. PDT as participants were gathering for the event’s signature burning of an effigy. According to reports from the San Francisco Chronicle, a festival participant alerted law enforcement after spotting the deceased man lying in a pool of blood.
Forensic investigators from Washoe County assisted with processing the scene while police interviewed people nearby. Approximately 70,000 people attended this year’s festival, many preparing to leave following the burning ceremony.
Officials with Burning Man Project have stated their cooperation with law enforcement efforts. “The safety and well-being of our community are paramount,” event organizers said, as reported by the San Francisco Chronicle.
This year’s festival began on August 24 but experienced delays due to storms and other disruptions during the week.
