A woman has passed away at Burning Man after being discovered unresponsive on Sunday morning. Burning Man officials reported that she was found unresponsive at 11:29 a.m., and despite efforts by emergency services to revive her, they were unsuccessful, according to a statement from the organization. Pershing County Sheriff Jerry Allen stated that his deputies were informed of the situation and responded, receiving notice of her death at 11:37 a.m.
The sheriff’s office noted that the death is under investigation, with the cause and manner to be determined following an autopsy. The woman’s identity and age have not been released as authorities work to notify her next of kin. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of the deceased,” the sheriff’s office said. “This is the first death reported on the playa this year, and unfortunately, it occurred on the first day,” Allen added.
Burning Man also expressed condolences in a similar statement and mentioned that counseling services are available for those in need. “Our thoughts and condolences go out to the family and friends affected by this loss,” Burning Man’s statement said. The annual festival began early Sunday morning after being delayed for 12 hours due to rain and muddy conditions. Law enforcement reported that approximately 20,000 people were already present on the playa before the gates reopened.
Burning Man will continue until September 2. Although attendance was predicted to be lower this year, organizers still anticipate over 70,000 attendees. Reno Tahoe International Airport noted that Sunday would be its busiest day in two decades, largely due to the influx of people attending Burning Man.
Our deepest condolences go out to the woman’s family and friends.
H/T : RGJ
