Burning Man homicide victim has been identified

The search for the suspect is still ongoing.

Photo Credit: Burning Man / Ph. Rand Larson

 Authorities have now identified the man found dead at this year’s Burning Man festival as 37-year-old Vadim Kruglov of Russia. The Pershing County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the victim’s identity on Wednesday and said Kruglov’s family has been notified.

Kruglov was discovered around 9:14 p.m. on Saturday, when a festival attendee alerted a deputy to a man “lying in a pool of blood.” Responding officers arrived at the campsite and found Kruglov deceased. A perimeter was established, and forensic specialists from the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office were brought in to collect evidence. Witnesses in the area were also interviewed.

In a statement, Burning Man organizers said they are cooperating fully with law enforcement and have set up three public Wi-Fi stations for attendees needing to contact family or friends.

Investigators noted the challenges of working in Black Rock City, a temporary desert settlement that dismantled on Monday as the event concluded. The lack of cell service and limited surveillance footage further complicates the search for any leads.

Officials are asking anyone with information to contact Pershing County Sheriff’s Office investigator Josh Nicholson via dispatch at 774-273-2641.