BRC News

Statement Regarding Pershing County Sheriff’s Office Investigation of Deceased Participant

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Updated Wednesday, September 3, 2025 12:15pm PT:

The Pershing County Sheriff’s Office has identified the decedent as Vadim Kruglov from Russia. Our hearts go out to Vadim’s family and friends and we grieve the loss of a community member. Burning Man Project is doing everything we can to assist the Sheriff’s investigation so the perpetrator can be caught and brought to justice. This includes our intent for a coordinated donation to the Secret Witness program, which offers rewards for more information that contributes to law enforcement’s investigation.

The Pershing County Sheriff’s Office continues to request any and all information that may assist in their investigation. If you know something, or you were in the vicinity of 8:30 & I on Burn night, please call 775-273-2641 and reference case # 25-318.

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Updated Monday, September 1, 2025 11:00am PT:

The Pershing County Sheriff’s Office is requesting any information to assist with their investigation. They are specifically looking for help to identify the decedent, a single white male, age 35-40, approximately 6 feet tall, 200 lbs, with short brown hair and facial hair. Read more here.

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The Pershing County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the death of a single white male that occurred the night of Saturday, August 30 in Black Rock City. Burning Man is cooperating with law enforcement. The investigation is ongoing and the Pershing County Sheriff’s Office will be the primary source of further information. If you are in Black Rock City, do not interfere with law enforcement activity.
The safety and well-being of our community are paramount. Participants have access to free public WiFi at the 3 and 9 o’clock plazas, Playa Info (near Center Camp), Ranger HQ (Esplanade & 6:30), at the Emergency Services Department station at 5:15 & Esplanade, and in Center Camp should they need to communicate with loved ones.
If you’re in Black Rock City and need support, there are resources available to you:
  • Black Rock Rangers are available to provide peer support services 24/7 at Ranger HQ (Esplanade & 6:30) and Outposts (behind the 3:00 and 9:00 Plazas).
  • Black Rock City’s Emergency Services Department’s Crisis Support team are available 24/7 at the ESD stations located at 5:15 & Esplanade and behind the 3:00 and 9:00 Plazas.
The Pershing County Sheriff’s office investigates all deaths that occur in its jurisdiction. Read their release here.

About the author: Burning Man Project

Burning Man Project

The official voice of the Burning Man organization, managed by Burning Man Project's Communications Team.