A murder victim found in the midst of a major music festival has been identified as a Russian man, Vadim Kruglov.
The 37-year-old had been attending Burning Man when he was first reported ‘missing’ by influencer Sofiia Shcherbakova, before his body was discovered.
Sofiia posted and urged anyone to get in contact with her: ‘His tent and belongings were left at camp, but he never returned. Please share this information widely.
‘If anyone has seen Vadim or has any information, please let us know. We are very concerned and hope he will be found soon.’
Vadim was found Saturday night around 9.15 pm, at the same time the famous ‘man’ effigy was burned.
In a statement on their website, Burning Man organisers wrote: ‘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.’
‘Burning Man Project extends our deepest condolences to Mr. Kruglov’s loved ones as they prepare to return him home to Russia,’ Marian Goodell, CEO of Burning Man Project, said.
‘We also extend our compassion to our wider community of participants, volunteers, and staff alike. Together, we strive to uphold the values at the heart of the Burning Man community.’
The Burning Man festival, which has been hit by extreme weather in recent years, attracts tens of thousands of people each year.
It has drawn criticism in recent years, given its large size and rural location, as well as the difficulty in policing and providing medical assistance.
This year, a woman gave birth to a baby girl while attending the festival for the first time with her husband.
This year’s festival has also seen intense storms, including one dust storm which destroyed the ‘Orgy Dome’.
The event advertises itself as an opportunity for free expression and communal living in a largely unregulated environment.
Although there is a reputation for drug use and nudity, dozens of children go there, too.
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