Death under investigation at Burning Man as tens of thousands trapped by mud, rain

Nevada authorities revealed on Saturday that they were investigating one death at the Burning Man festival after rain left more than 70,000 attendees stranded. 

In a statement, the Pershing County Sheriff's Office said that the death occurred "during this rain event," but did not disclose the cause of death or the person's identity. 

"As this death is still under investigation, there is no further information available at this time," it said. 

On Friday attendees of the festival were advised to conserve food and water and "shelter in place" as a rain storm created incredibly muddy conditions which stopped vehicles from traveling in and out. 

One attendee posted a video on X showing the conditions inside the Black Rock City grounds. He stated that they "don't need outside help," and noted "a couple didn't make it last night." 

Saturday morning, event organizers announced, “No driving is permitted on playa except for emergency vehicles." They added, "If you are in (Black Rock City), please shelter in place and stay safe."

"Do not travel to Black Rock City," the organizers posted Saturday. "Access to the city is closed for the remainder of the event, and you will be turned around." 

The Sheriff's office said, "Some vehicles have been able to drive off the Playa, however, those vehicles have caused damage to the Playa surface, and it is not recommended at this time." 

American DJ Diplo, whose legal name is Thomas Wesley Pentz posted a video to X that appeared to show him, comedian Chris Rock, and others escaping from the Black Rock City in the back of a pick-up truck. 

Burning Man is a weeklong festival, that was set to conclude on Monday, which attracts tens of thousands of people to Black Rock City, Nevada, to build a city in the desert that is "dedicated to community, art, self-expression and self-reliance," according to its website. 

Before the start of the festival, a viral video showed environmental activists blocking the entrance to the festival grounds. A viral video showed a police truck smashing into their protest and arresting the activists.