Camilla Jessen
Police have identified a man who had been found dead at Burning Man in a ‘pool of blood’ over the weekend.
A man found dead in a pool of blood during this year’s Burning Man festival has been formally identified.
Authorities are investigating his death as a homicide.
Discovery During Festival’s Peak
A man found dead at the 2025 Burning Man festival has been identified as Vadim Kruglov, a 37-year-old Russian national living in Washington. ‘
His body was discovered on Saturday, August 30, around 9:14 p.m., near the time the central “Burning Man” effigy was set alight.
Authorities Investigating Suspected Homicide
Kruglov was found by another festivalgoer. According to police, he was “lying in a pool of blood” and was “obviously deceased” at the scene.
The incident is being treated as a homicide.
Death Called a “Singular Crime”
Sheriff Jerry Allen of Pershing County said investigators believe the death was an isolated act. The body was transported to the coroner for further examination.
No suspects have been publicly named.
Investigators said that there are no known threats to other festivalgoers. However, they continue to treat the situation with urgency.
Identity Confirmed Through Fingerprints
Initially, authorities issued a public appeal for help identifying the victim.
He was described as a white male, 35–40 years old. He stood approximately 6 feet tall, weighed around 200 pounds, and had short brown hair and facial hair.
On Sunday, officials confirmed the man’s identity through fingerprint analysis. He was Vadim Kruglov, a Russian citizen who had been living in the United States.
Belongings Abandoned at Campsite
Kruglov had been reported missing by friends.
According to one friend, Sofiia Shcherbakova, he had not been seen since August 29. His tent and personal items remained at camp.
Shcherbakova told Unilad, that he had not been in contact. She posted pleas on social media asking others at the festival to help retrace his steps.
Friends and Police Appeal for Information
Shcherbakova urged anyone who had seen Kruglov to review their photos and videos.
She said he had last been seen dancing inside the Mine Warrior pyramid. He may have been recorded on art cars or in surrounding camps.
Law enforcement echoed her appeal.
Anyone with information about Kruglov’s whereabouts or who may have seen him is asked to contact investigators at 775-273-2641 or jnicholson@pershingcountynv.gov.
Burning Man Organizers Respond
The Burning Man Project released a public statement.
“Our hearts go out to Vadim’s family and friends. We grieve the loss of a community member.”
They also confirmed they are cooperating fully with the sheriff’s investigation. Organizers intend to donate to the Secret Witness program, which offers rewards for tips that aid law enforcement.
Kruglov’s Body to Be Returned to Russia
Kruglov’s friends and Burning Man organizers are working together to return his body to Russia. No timeline has been shared.
His death has cast a shadow over what is usually a week of art, music, and celebration in Nevada’s Black Rock Desert.
A Shocking Moment at Burning Man
While deaths at Burning Man are not unheard of, homicide cases are rare.
Investigators continue to explore all leads. For now, many questions remain unanswered. Authorities and loved ones are hoping more witnesses will come forward soon.
