Burning man homicide victim identified as Russian national Vadim Kruglov

Authorities have identified the man found dead in a pool of blood at the Burning Man festival on Saturday night as Vadim Kruglov, a Russian national. The festival takes place annually in the Nevada desert on a plot of land transformed into Black Rock City.

Kruglov’s body was discovered around 9:15 pm on August 30, during the height of the festival when the wooden “man” effigy was set on fire, according to the Pershing County Sheriff’s Office. His body was found in the outer area of the campsite, and another participant alerted deputies. Investigators classified the case as a homicide and initially asked the public for assistance in identifying the body. His friends had reported him missing that day.

“Although this act appears to be a singular crime, all participants should always be vigilant of their surroundings and acquaintances,” Sheriff Jerry Allen said in an August 31 press release.

The Bureau of Land Management in Nevada confirmed that Kruglov’s family has been notified. 

Kruglov’s friends expressed grief, calling him a “true hero of Burning Man,” and are now working to return his remains to his hometown of Omsk. One friend, Sofiia Shcherbakova, wrote on Instagram, “He pored his soul into our community: building the camp, creating an art installation, always ready to help others and being kind and responsive to everyone.”

In a statement to The Daily Mail, Burning Man organizers said, “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,” the statement continued. “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.”