Some really upsetting news out of Burning Man, as the unthinkable, worst-case scenario has happened…
According to the AP via local news station KTNV, a Nevada sheriff says the man who ran into the flames during the festival’s annual burning ceremony has died.
Pershing County Sheriff Jerry Allen reports that around 10:30 pm last night, the man ran past security officers during the signature Man Burn and jumped straight into the flames. The attendee was treated on site before being rushed to a nearby burn treatment center. An update from officials has confirmed the man died at UC Davis hospital burn center in California today.
Earlier today, Burning Man released an official statement, and we’re expecting another soon, following the tragic death:
At approximately 10:30 p.m. Saturday evening, a male participant at the annual Burning Man event in Northern Nevada broke through a safety perimeter and ran into a fire. Black Rock City fire personnel rescued him from the fire.
The individual was treated on scene, transported to the on-site medical facility and airlifted to a burn treatment center.
We will share more information as it becomes available.
Our thoughts are with the friends and family of the Burner, and all attendees and staff of the beloved cultural gathering. For more information and photos from Reuters, click here.
Source: AP via KTNV | Photo via Reuters