This statue will kill you

[@FallAmongstUs]

22:46 Like button in the brown sign!!

[@MrBallen]

great attention to detail! you win!!

[@RandallChase1]

Impressive!!

[@noahfzx]

@@MrBallen early

[@chapingaryjr]

All I see is a arrow

[@dannyboi21100]

Why u hate scots

[@RyAnxiety1]

I can't be the only one that doesn't even bother trying to find the secret in these videos. I am usually so enthralled and eventually traumatized, good job dude on your videos.

[@roxannemoser]

That would be me. I never look for it because I'm completely enthralled with the stories.

[@MTDfilms]

I did once but kept getting distracted by the story

[@pacmanfree]

It definitely goes right by me cause I’m so interested in the stories

[@j.j.kucala9835]

I'm with you guys. My wife and friends are always asking me about what stories Mr. B is telling and I keep telling them to watch and it seems to work because they don't ask anymore about what stories that he's telling now they ask me if I've seen them because they all now are subscribers. Thanks Mr. B again for making this past year entertaining in spite of all of the craziness in the world.

[@kikarn4889]

Yeah, i dont look for it either, i just like the stories

[@kevissimo]

As someone who has gone and worked for Burning Man for 20 years, I want to thank you for the respect you gave the event. 2017 was my 20th year and I was there for this tragedy. There are some details to the story that should be brought up however. There are actually three layers of defense on burn night. As you stated, the rangers are the first perimeter. They are all volunteers and many of them are my friends. Their prime job is to simply keep people safe...and often run interference with law enforcement. Beyond the rangers, many yards in, are what we call the "Sandmen." They are people trained in taking people down in a safe way in case there is a runner. Then at the fire itself are the fire department in proximity suits. Beyond that is death. In a moment when the base of the effigy flared up, people shifted position to back farther from the fire and that's when this guy made his move. My friends who witnessed it said he was like a linebacker who dodged everyone trying to stop him. And they did try to stop him. At the base he tripped over a burning beam of wood and plunged into the fire. As the fire department tried to save him, part of the burning structure fell hampering their efforts. This was all horribly caught on video which I regret watching. It traumatized everyone who saw it. They brought him out of shock where he screamed in agony. Twelve seconds in an inferno...just count that out and imagine. How he even lived for hours after is beyond imagining. Yes, his motivation will always remain a mystery. My personal speculation, having seen many people try to "fire jump" is that he saw this as an opportunity to get in there, jump over something and escape to tell the story. But what makes no sense to me is that in order to even attempt this you would have to push past every natural instinct once you get within a certain proximity. The air is a searing hundreds of degrees well before you even get close. He would have begun to suffer burns just on his approach. What force would push him past that? We'll never know.

[@katies4521]

Wow! Thanks for the insight

[@aesthet8883]

Wow, I would’ve never known this. Thanks for this dude!

[@kennyidan8307]

Really intriguing… thanks for sharing this information bro

[@Acewithplants]

Thanks Dude!

[@jayesimond9301]

I’m seriously so shook up by the mental picture of this poor soul’s agony screams that I won’t be able to sleep tonight. Should have skipped this story. RIP.

[@Nerobyrne]

Can I just say that I REALLY appreciate it that every time you show a photo, you make sure to tell us if it's a photo from the actual event/location or just sort of related.

[@ioiwut4874]

that and always using BOTH imperial and metric units

[@MySqueezingArm]

It's amazing how much those little additions really help the experience.

[@rubytuesday5412]

~ As someone who steps out onto my balcony every day and sees that view, I can attest that it really is a view of Perth W. Australia!

[@anthonymarinello6008]

I believe that's actually in the guidelines. I don't know this for sure, though.

[@missnici1504]

Mr. Ballen even added sound when showing the picture of the waterfall....

[@cosmicphoto05]

The Honeymoon story is just unfathomable to me. I can't imagine the trauma of seeing your life partner die in front of you just when you both were starting this new life together. Just devastating beyond words. 😭

[@sharonjohnson8832]

This story broke my heart for her 😢

[@miapdx503]

First she knew the joy of her wedding, her new husband...then the pain of becoming a widow...after ten days of marriage. How utterly heartbreaking. 😢

[@Cooldudewhotellsamazingjokes]

Spouse, not partner. Your Grammer is bad.

[@cosmicphoto05]

@@Cooldudewhotellsamazingjokes - Spouses are life partners; not all life partners are spouses. I was taking this particular instance and generalizing the experience where even people who aren't married (i.e. spouses), but have chosen to make a life together (i.e. life partners) would likely be similarly traumatized by such an event.

[@DragonRiderShiru]

​@@Cooldudewhotellsamazingjokespartner is the correct word.

[@hannahatkins9402]

When I’m about to do something stupid, I ask myself “Is this something that MrBallen could make a video about? And if yes, then I do not do that thing.

[@pollypockets508]

Amen!

[@jamesprice2163]

Lol wish I would have learned that earlier I jumped off a cliff bank for a river but went with my friends and had my brother mark the sharp rocks below in the water that I couldn't see but I could see my brother so I knew how far I had to jump (a good six to seven feet out if not more) luckily I made it by roughly a foot and I've never done it again it was the most adrenaline fuled thing I've ever done and luckily it ended well when it could have ended with me in a wheelchair or in a box

[@jeffstanley2974]

I miss that show…

[@smallwhisperers2930]

Wise choice 👍

[@TVHorrorArt]

@@jeffstanley2974 me too man, me too 😭

[@taysricochet3536]

The first story is so devastatingly heartbreaking. My heart goes out to Gemma.

[@danielgrohl6971]

DOKKEN Into the Fire, and IRON MAIDEN The Wicker Man comes to the mind of this heavy metal guitar player..

[@ramseyhester6415]

@@danielgrohl6971 what?

[@3dsmaxrocks699]

They were told not to go in the water LOL.....feel bad for her???

[@damalman8223]

@@3dsmaxrocks699 that was the second story...Gemma and her husband weren't told about the bull shark in the water

[@LilyS1031]

@@danielgrohl6971 I had that Dokken tape as a kid.

[@pajamas_the_emo]

The husband dying in their honeymoon is so tragic… I couldn’t imagine the pain she must feel and how lonely she felt

[@arribaficationwineho32]

A newly married couple had such a tragedy on honeymoon in Mexico….a wave runner doubled back abd hit him in the head after he fell off. So horrible.

[@dcm0442396]

And the Bullshark lived happily ever after on the money she paid, My Theory, anywho!!!

[@GrimgoreIronhide]

What about the man lol? He cant have been to happy about being eaten.

[@Blox117]

hopping on someone else's prick or a hundred by now

[@arribaficationwineho32]

@@GrimgoreIronhide what response do you hope from this comment?

[@rachelmullen9338]

Oh burning man. Me and my husband were sitting right in front of the spot he ran into the fire and it was an insane moment. The most beautiful burn I’ve ever seen turned into an event that was really traumatic for probably 1500 people. I think the worst part was right after he flew into the fire the structure collapsed and everyone who hadn’t seen it erupted in excitement but on our side of the man it was dead silent and still. Haven’t been back since.

[@miiim]

And he didn't give a fck about his wife waiting for him. I feel for her.

[@drdickqueso]

Burning man is gross.

[@victoryv9575]

I'm so sorry you witnessed that. I've worked for the BM Org and have heard the story from those that were there. Traumatizing. They said he was just determined to run into the fire.

[@conormcmahon5754]

That’s horrible! Thing to go through! I’m going burning man sometime in the future. I don’t know when but I will and I’m sorry that you witnessed that! And yeah

[@conormcmahon5754]

I’m so sorry that you went through that! Hopefully when I do go to burning man I will pay my respects to him. Rip Arron!

[@sara_c907]

I'm glad Ian was able to look into his wife's eyes one last time. I hope it brought him peace in his final moments.

[@kookiethebear]

Severe shock had set in by that time...he didn't know what was happening, other than death.

[@sabrinaxraquel]

@@kookiethebear you're sure? I've had several near death experience.... And been a nurse who has witnessed death a lot. All I know...I hope my last moments are something comforting and calming... When my time actually does come..... Because the other times.... That weren't my time and I was brought back.. They were scary. But I do think that staring into the face of my spouse would be a comfort. As opposed to medics using the jaws of life to cut my car open.... Or hearing the loud footsteps and radio calls if medics and fighters around my head. Feeling that scared feeling feels a little less scary when you're looking in the face of someone you know and love.

[@sabrinaxraquel]

Because I've experiences both.

[@kookiethebear]

@@sabrinaxraquel I agree with your examples of times that would be comforting to have a loved one. In this example, the actual events are dramatized, as there are no facts to corroborate Aaron ever saw his family before dying upon arrival at the Burn Center. As a nurse, consider jumping into a bonfire and having another bonfire thrown on top of you. I'm very surprised he didn't die of cardiac arrest from the trauma, but I can imagine (but don't know) he was unconscious between the event and PToD. Having served in a supportive role for several family members, who eventually succumbed to death in a hospital, I'd never wish such pain on anyone. However, I'd like to think those family members had greater peace knowing we were there caring for, talking to, and sharing in their last moments before transition. Life is fragile and short, embrace relationships that allow you to love hard and shine your light to those that don't. Peace and love to you and your family.

[@cyl742]

That first story is incredibly sad. How could the resort NOT tell people about the previous attacks? Story #2 is sad, but proof that panic can kill you quickly.

[@vohlm]

idk its more a testament of human stupidity if they were warned as claimed

[@FreakyLynx]

The woman was inspired to go to Australia after watching Crocodile Dundee but missed the danger of crocodiles?

[@guymontag162]

Have you ever seen Jaws?

[@legendaryarchie6512]

Im guessing the crocodile was either messing with them or it was spooked by the waterfall because it just waited

[@n4ppyboyx]

#2 They were warned though.

[@nicholashilaire9062]

The story of Aaron reminds me of the phenomenon called L’appel du vide, (Call of the void in English). It’s something that happens to people who are completely sane and they feel this sudden calling or urge to throw themselves into very precarious situations. I’ve felt it before when hiking at Grandfather Mountain in NC. I was atop the mountain overlooking a drop and even though I was completely secure, I felt the unspeakable urge to just throw myself from the overlook. It’s like feeling as though your body wants you to fall but the only thing keeping you from doing so are your own rational thoughts.

[@-._.-KRiS-._.-]

I get this feeling when I am on upper floors of a building that have walkways or banisters overlooking the ground floor below. I'm not afraid of heights but I'm afraid that if I look down long enough I'll give in to that strange pull of a desire to want to thrust myself over the railing in order to get closer to the ground floor even though I logically and emotionally don't want to actually fall. I wonder if this is some kind of leftover evolutionary trait where our primal brain knows that 'ground' is safe and it wants to get to 'safety' the quickest way possible?

[@hamishanderson6738]

Sheesh, l get vertigo just standing at the edge of the pavement (sidewalk) 😱😅

[@befunkrn]

Sounds exactly like what Satan whispers into people's minds to get them to kill or destroy themselves.

[@sulaiman4111]

@@hamishanderson6738 that's a good one.

[@tylerecho2589]

I live in the mountains, it’s a daily thing

[@KitsuneNarutoKun]

First story broke my heart. Only 10 days married and such a brutal end. I truly had hoped Ian would survive somehow.

[@DiamondCake2]

😂😂😂😂

[@moonshmallow_w]

​@@DiamondCake2bro wtf

[@white_booked9049]

@@DiamondCake2You must have no sympathy for others.

[@annabellepruitt843]

I have recently became disabled and so now while trying to understand what my life is gonna be like I have found comfort from listening to your stories. You are amazing thank you for putting out such amazing content❤

[@danwescoat1648]

I'm not sure how you became disabled or your disability is but I have been disabled since February 3rd, 2013 due to a car accident that paralyzed me from around my nipples and down, life will throw some curveballs your way but life after being disabled is what you make of it, things can go good or they can go bad and there will be challenges and I'm not going to sugar coat it it sucks majorly at times but you just got to keep your head up and make the best of it , I have had my fair share of ups & downs Mr. Ballens videos are truly great and are great reminder that things could be worse

[@jonwiele7064]

Bless your heart sweet girl, I’m so sorry for your loss. May u find the strength to keep pushing through life and acquire the curiosity of life to make it an adventure instead of a prison. I’ll keep you in prayer, sending love and positive thoughts to you. May U have peace and certainty of mind in the years ahead. God bless you and may he keep you under His wing of comfort❤️❤️❤️

[@jonwiele7064]

@@danwescoat1648 bless you Dan for offering encouragement while being real about it. I too have struggled with a disability my whole life and ur right it is what u make of it. I can’t imagine not having the disability from the start like I did, it would be hard to have and lost to have never have had. My thoughts and prayers are with you too my friend. God bless you brother❤️❤️❤️

[@danwescoat1648]

@@jonwiele7064 thanks same to you aswell and yeah it was hard but I accepted right off the bat, I woke up from my medically induced coma and instantly knew something wasn't right when I couldn't feel most of my body and I said to myself I really did it this time moments before my family noticed I was awake and came over to me I was 23 at the time and was a very active person always out in the woods either walking or driving or riding dirt bikes and quads and bicycles and I would skateboard or ride my bike around my small town and I had loved swimming in the rivers in the woods around the area where I live and going from a fully active life to being in a wheelchair was a major adjustment and having everything I loved doing taken away all at once was a major blow but I knew there was nothing I could do to change that so I just accepted my new life, thankfully I don't remember anything from the couple hours or so before my accident and my accident because from what I was told of the injuries that I had in my single vehicle accident where I hit a patch of black ice on the road and slid off of it and slid across a large grass patch into a telephone pole that barely damaged the car , I don't think I could have handle the pain of completely shattering 2 vertebrae in my back and a broken rib that punctured both my lungs and then not being found for around a hour or so , I can only imagine the pain I probably would have been in and how cold I would have felt since it was around midnight on a freezing cold night where it just had snowed afew hours earlier, I know afew people who were born with different disabilities from when I was growing up and they were always in high spirits about 98% of the time and after my accident they kept me lifted up and in a good spirt aswell even on days I just wanted to bury my head in my pillow and not want to do anything or talk to anyone and they still keep me lifted up in good spirits and help me when I'm having a off day where I feel miserable and they remind me to keep looking on the upside that I'm still alive and in good health

[@DRAMALAHMAA]

This right here is a beautiful moment . You guys are appreciated and awesome never stop sharing your positivity and never give up on YOURSELF . My dad had a stroke which left him disable and he lost his speech but he was and will always be thee toughest man i know. Without words he shouted. Without standing he stood tall and without him there is no me. We need you guys and appreciate all that you are 😍 stay strong. Sending you guys love,light and prayers

[@sebro7229]

As an Australian i have this message to ALL visitors: - please never ever ever ever swim in any inland body of water here.

[@kouayep0]

Thanks

[@jeanetteandersson7152]

Duly noted mate 👍🙏🏻❤️

[@herkko61]

Nothing can happen if I stay in the water only 2-3 minutes. It's so refreshing after traveling many hours. And... I'm always carrying my apple knife with me, for self protection.

[@pollypockets508]

@@herkko61 ok dude

[@exeforus3067]

Down south if qld isn't that bad though, just don't go that far out

[@anonymousbosch9035]

In nature, "murky brown water" is almost NEVER good. That's like going into the barn with all the sharp tools to hide when a psychotic killer wearing a mask is chasing you.

[@genie3531]

No? It literally just means there’s a lot of dirt and dead organic matter like plants and shit

[@bouncer5338]

@@genie3531 In Australia, "murky brown water" is ALWAYS NEVER good. Bull sharks and crocodiles love this water. Water buffalo, feral pigs and wild cattle (all dangerous to humans) love this water. This is the only type of water in inland Australia! Don't swim anywhere you can't see the bottom and definitely not at dawn, dusk or night time.

[@jodyariewitz7349]

😆👏👍

[@robertpunu7624]

@@bouncer5338 sound advice. bonus video. kzbin.info/www/bejne/rKqkmWyFerN9hrc

[@pacificblue5461]

Hmmm those sharp tools would be a great way to defend yourself against the psycho killer that's after you

[@chandleryoung9515]

The thing is, families always say “there’s no way he committed suicide he was acting happy, not acting erratic” But what they don’t understand is that the VAST majority of people that actually do commit suicide do not outwardly show any signs that they’re going to commit suicide. And from experience (my friend killed himself) they actually will act happy as to not bother any body

[@wilsjane]

I think that he may have been torn between his wanderlust and his wife back at home. Their would have been no easy solution.

[@katiegarrison9414]

I knew a guy who bought his dream car, made plans for a vacation, had plans for a new career and ended it all within weeks of all of this happening.

[@darklordsauron3415]

⁠@@katiegarrison9414I’m going to do the same, but without the career vacations and plans, and more like with a bottle of vodka in a gutter.

[@WhyisthereAir...]

I understand that sometimes when people finally decide to commit suicide they feel very very relieved. So much so, that they become relaxed and happy. Their relatives and friends notice that they are happy, perhaps, even serene. Feeling better. Then suddenly, they've committed suicide. The ones who love them feel guilty, believing they "should" have seen signs. In actuality, there weren't any. 😔

[@thickMilkk]

when that picture of him popped up followed up with “he was totally normal” i just looked off to the side. they say don’t judge a book by its cover, but the cover can be a good indication of what your getting into lol. dude was not okay. obviously.

[@daddybilly001]

I've lived here in Australia for all my life, and once I heard that second story I could tell that something was going to happen the moment she jumped in. Up north and inland to the west, jumping into any type of natural water is a huge no-go, especially if its muddy like much of the northern waters are. A good rule is, if you can’t see the bottom, don’t go in.

[@richardea4223]

Same here in the U.S.A. If I can't see what is underneath the surface, there is no way I am going in. Oh, don't get me wrong! I use to go swimming in the Chesapeake Bay. I thought it was fun and innocent. Then came 1975 and the rest was history. Thank you Steven Spielberg.😎

[@nicklausbryant7785]

Sounds like a reasonable rule. I'll do you one better.....if I come to Australia, I won't get into ANY water! Lol

[@daddybilly001]

@@nicklausbryant7785 smart idea ahah, but some of the beaches are amazing

[@daddybilly001]

@@richardea4223 😎

[@nicklausbryant7785]

@@daddybilly001 true but I don't like great whites, tigers, and bull sharks especially and lots of others as well Lol If I lived there, I'd probably go anyway, though. I do love the water.

[@Anon12077]

It's always sad when good people lose their lives, but stories like Ian and Gemma's break my heart. Like a lot of the time in the "places you can't go and people who went there anyways" series, people end up dead because they're being reckless or going somewhere that's incredibly risky, but this was just a couple on the beach enjoying their honeymoon and thinking about all they were gonna do together- and then in an instant it's just... gone. There was nothing they could have done differently, no way they could have prevented it, it was just the cruel randomness of nature. It really shows you how fragile life is. You can't take life for granted because all it takes is one choice, one wrong move, one moment for everything to change. Cherish your loved ones, cherish yourself.

[@frankoconnell6745]

“Places you can’t go, but people went anyway” is definitely my favorite series you do! Love love love your content!!!!

[@elvira2756]

Frank O'Connell, but in this case, this young man had no idea he was doing something dangerous.

[@angelachouinard4581]

@Frank I know these are my favorites and I suspect there are a lot more who think like we do.

[@n3gl3ctfounder]

His story format made me have nightmares in broad daylight. I think im gonna take a break for a while.

[@fabianatrindade56]

@@n3gl3ctfounder Oh noo 😢 We understand. His content can be pretty heavy sometimes. We'll be here when you come back 😊

[@fabianatrindade56]

Me too! LOVE IT! 😭❤️

[@nutmegdoesstuff1339]

I don't know much about wilderness survival, but I do know enough to know that if you're being stared down by a predator but it's not making a move, and suddenly it goes out of sight, that's not an opportunity, that's an ambush.

[@carmenross7063]

Why don't people just fucking listen!

[@paul_4881]

@@carmenross7063 stop complaining just because your life isn't going how you wanted

[@user-tk1lf5hi6f]

@@paul_4881 lol

[@DrJudyASmith]

@@paul_4881 carmenross7063 was referring to the Captain’s warnings about the crocodile-infested water. If Ginger had heeded the warning, she wouldn’t have become a crocodile’s dinner. If you were joking…my bad.

[@literallytyana]

Like quite literally something told me nah I wouldn’t move if the croc went back under water… I’d feel like it was a set up

[@JR-hi6il]

Poor Gemma. In the funeral picture, she looks like she’d aged through the hell she must have gone through seeing her husband die in front of her. So very sad.

[@lean2christ534]

It really is sad.

[@paulwoodford6229]

I laughed

[@summersanchez8178]

@@paulwoodford6229 uh ok

[@00Grimreaper00]

@@paulwoodford6229 your not funny.

[@jordantyo7839]

@@paulwoodford6229 I laughed

[@4PartsWhisky]

I was a witness to story #3..... That year I was in the Great Circle (which is inside the perimeter held by the rangers). Every year there are dozens of fire troupes that perform before the man burns. I was a torch holder that helped delineate the different performance spaces. I was as close to the fire as you could get without being a sandman or firefighter (the people who patrol further inside the Great Circle should the rangers not be able to stop someone). I should also mention that staff are VERY adamant that you *must* stay seated after the performances and during the man burn to let the rangers take care of any runners. If they see anyone standing, they will eject you completely from the event. They take this *very* seriously. I should also mention that every year there are runners and the rangers have been able to stop them. There was someone who tried biking across before the performances that year and we watched him get tackled and hauled off. So we had already seen them take someone out. I remember watching Aaron run just off to my right. He ran through a performance troupe that a bunch of my friends were in. They tried grabbing his ankles but couldn't. He was too agile, it was like watching a game of soccer or football. He kept dodging the rangers and sandmen. He got up to the fire and the firemen were able to stop him. They had hands on him. I could see they were trying to talk him down and usher him away, but he again slipped out of their grasp and swan dived into the fire. As soon as he did this, part of the structure started collapsing so the firemen had to stand back until it was safe for them to get him. That is why he was in there so long. They dragged him out and he was taken out by ambulance and later air lifted to a hospital. We did not know he was still alive, I was convinced he was dead when they pulled him out because of how long he was in there. A short time later they came out with buckets, shovels and flashlights...... Every year, they drop the perimeter as soon as the fire is a safe size so that people can rush and run around the burned effigy. They did not drop perimeter that year because it was now an active crime scene. You could tell there was confusion and tension as people were waiting for the perimeter to drop. They had to come through and dismiss us by group when it was safe to leave. So we were stuck there for awhile, unable to move, unable to do anything but sit and watch them clean the scene up. When we got back to camp, only half of us knew what happened. The other half had no idea because they were on the other side of the fire. It was absolutely surreal to walk back and see so many people partying and having a good time, completely oblivious to what had happened. It is also tradition for people to visit the man's ashes after the fire was down. People cook food, give out brands, search for small pieces of whatever they can take home with them. They even kept a perimeter around the ashes that year. I struggled with PTSD after this, but have since healed and am in a much more stable place. I returned to the Great Circle, as a performer, in 2019. There were no runners that year.

[@rookieman329]

So Aaron was just too good for them

[@4PartsWhisky]

@@rookieman329 I think it was moreso that he was too determined.

[@meganhanrath376]

What an absolutely beautiful account of your experience ❤ I can't even imagine witnessing something like this. Thank you for sharing your story!

[@roypayton1882]

Thanks for sharing your story. I'm a burner whose birthday is on August 28th w b o has never been. It broke my heart when I heard about this happening. Please keep sharing your art & light with those lucky to see it. Glad to hear you're able to move on.

[@thepolarpals]

That sounds like a terrible experience, well done for getting past PTSD. I know it can be very difficult.

[@GlassesnMouthplates]

The infuriating thing about the Honeymoon story is the resort probably was reluctant to give out the bullshark warning most likely because they were too afraid that it might drive visitors away from the beach.

[@relent-lass7510]

Just like the Mayor in JAWS

[@ma02917]

couldnt she sue them

[@Seanw305]

It’s the ocean…. where sharks LIVE… what do you expect???

[@GlassesnMouthplates]

@@Seanw305 Not all oceans are infested with sharks.

[@relent-lass7510]

@@Seanw305 but when the sharks are close to shore , in proximity of people. They should issue warnings Because incidents like that (that could have been avoided) happen Bull sharks are in the top 3 most dangerous sharks

[@sepultura777]

When my mum was younger (she grew up in Australia) she did a tour up North with a guide, and there were several tourists as well. Anyway, so they were setting up camp that had a river somewhat close by - the tour guide had warned everyone several times not to go near the water because of crocs. There were also signs posted along the river warning not to go in. So they wake up one morning and are getting breakfast sorted and realise they are one person short. So they look around and call his name and can't find him. The tour guide ends up going for a walk (about 10 mins) down to the river.. right next to the river he see's a pair of shoes, a tshirt, and a towel. One guy decided it would be nice to go for a late night swim (after being warned multiple times to stay away from the water). His body was never recovered.

[@Jimmy94411]

One less male in the world is a good thing

[@thetherrannative]

Some deaths are not tragedies, but Darwinism at work.

[@JakeTheVikingFranklin]

Everytime I get in the ocean I instantly think of all these shark attack stories and then get out

[@MrBallen]

Good strategy

[@j_rainsgoat3929]

@@MrBallen my son spent a week at summer camp this year at the Atlantic ocean. He had a great time swimming all week. However the day we picked him up we decided to swim in the ocean and he was attacked by a bull shark. Spent 20 days in the hospital lost his left foot. Quite a sobering experience.

[@lindatullos9430]

@@j_rainsgoat3929 Swimming in the ocean is always a buddy sport. Because it's that quick that something bad can happen . A sting of a jelly fish. etc. It is a wild area even if lots of people are around. One must respect it's power and the wild life in it.

[@CatcherofPearls]

I go in the ocean to almost my knees. That's all I'll do

[@Serenity_Dee]

shark attacks are extremely rare you're far more likely to be killed by a cow or a dog than a shark

[@dajilus2410]

Love the “places you can’t go but people went there anyway” series. By far the most terrifying to me

[@anastasiachaliman4234]

Yes mine too!

[@ibanheadhunter8317]

Me too

[@frankoconnell6745]

It’s my favorite out of all the series as well!

[@ashleymyles9375]

@dkkkkk00 yessss the missing 411 is crazy to me. Some of them you can cognitive dissonance your way out of it but some of them are just like ……woah lol

[@Phoenix-ru7fl]

me too

[@damonmiller8930]

You’re really good at humanizing people right before their death I feel like that’s why your stories are so good because even know you know these people are either going to die or get severely injured you’re rooting for them the whole time

[@FirstLast-yq1ps]

It'd be pretty bad if he couldn't humanize most any human. I'd be interested to see how he describes Hitler's death though haha

[@tosiebel5522]

I know!!! So true. I was rooting for them all.

[@atmywhitson]

Facts. It makes the stories much sadder because you think oh no their going to die..nooooo!!!! "No, Susan don't go into the water!"

[@MellowMaromi]

@LETS GO BRANDON #FJB Nobody's forcing you to treat your fellow human with respect, settle down edgelord.

[@eviehammond9509]

He's so good at it that Ive had to not watch some of the gruesome videos/ stories because I cant stop thinking about it long after the fact. Thats probably not his goal for doing it, but it does show just how good he is at his storytelling.

[@Mrs.Silversmith]

Honestly that last story seems like a textbook case of l'appel du vide, aka call of the void. It is a sudden but brief feeling/impulse to do something life threatening like drive off a bridge or jump off a high place. The impulse is out of character and it is not associated with suicidal ideation/depression.

[@ladyreverie7027]

Imagine the agony of looking into your soulmate's eyes as he dies after a shark attack. What an absolutely tragic end to a beautiful love story.

[@scar8656]

That was sad however the ginger story was just natural selection because they were already warned

[@bostontowny4life744]

Fking pisses me off tbh.

[@pricklypear7516]

It made me feel really bad, because when Mr. Ballen introduced Gemma and said she was approached by a tall, good-looking guy, my first impulse was to yell,"RUN! He's a killer!"

[@gownerjones]

That alone is horribly heartbreaking but it's just made worse by the state his body was in. Imagine seeing a loved one with an entire arm missing and a huge hole in his torso, probably bleeding profusely out of the wounds, completely unable to help. Gemma must be traumatized for life.

[@jl.creature.design]

@@gownerjones I think that will probably be the worst part for her , of course it must be so painful to loose a loved one but it must be even worse to see them in such a horrible way , I hope she'll recover as best as possible

[@faithfail]

The first story is absolutely brutal. I wouldn't be able to be sane ever again after seeing my spouse like that.

[@LiterallyEly]

Same here. I couldnt recover from what was supposed to be the best 2 weeks of my life turning into a nightmare like that R.I.P.

[@Kitsune-ur6vz]

You forgot....NO DIVING

[@RevealedFilms]

@@LiterallyEly sounds like a scene from a horror movie film 😰

[@TheNaturalGamer1]

Lol id be like get wrecked nerd

[@tristantzara9496]

@@TheNaturalGamer1 some people are weak minded dont mind them

[@supershasha]

For the second story, always trust your gut. If something doesn’t feel right or something is off, trust your judgement. You are always right in a situation such as that.

[@Kinga1520]

Or just listen to your captain warnings and don't go into the water

[@LosHitman]

Or don’t be an idiot and jump into a body of water when you just saw a gator swim down under

[@yeemawheaver1387]

How about trust your boss? Why do you need a gut feeling if someone literally told you that your in a croc infested water. Jane is lucky a different croc didn't eat her.

[@Sterilite101]

Very true!

[@boomonther]

Listen I’m not saying you’re wrong but I have anxiety. My gut feeling is trying to stop my heart

[@potato2423]

Never hike, never camp, never swim. Staying alive with Mr Ballen

[@BaldFoodiieGuy]

☝️☝️Congratulations, you've been selected among my winners this week message me to acknowledge your prize 🎁🎁🎁🎊🎊🎊⬆️⬆️..

[@kleets1996]

Remember Australia can’t find you if you don’t find it

[@franciscocota6440]

Remember the guy from Final Destination, the first movie? He had the right idea.

[@kathyclarke5252]

😂

[@deandredumas9007]

Don’t open the door, never close a door behind you but don’t stay at home either. Don’t jump over anything, keep both feet on the ground at all times. Stay out on continents that start with A

[@emmamcanelly9166]

When someone in Australia tells you not to get in the water it’s no joke. I’ve watched them swim in water where it’s ‘recommended’ you don’t go, so if they say don’t go in there then something really has to be up.

[@BlackTemplar618]

Kangaroos will wait for something to enter the water so it can drag you down and kill you.

[@TheAustralian1x]

@@BlackTemplar618 they do for dogs 🐕 kangaroos are smart

[@evelynvslife]

@@BlackTemplar618 to be fair, they use to for self defence. They’re not out here actively looking all yummy in the water to lure dogs and such to their deaths.

[@Lesbiwolf92]

@@evelynvslife A kangaroo will kick the absolute shit out of you just cos you looked at it funny, don't just assume an animal will only attack in self defence especially if it's a male.

[@evelynvslife]

@@Lesbiwolf92 I live in rural Australia. I literally have kangaroos all over my property. They don’t just attack you because you look funny. If they’re attacking you, you’ve done something wrong.

[@brummelbar]

That last picture of Aaron is really impactful… can’t imagine what it must have felt like to see it for his friends and family

[@tylerecho2589]

At least he had his hydroflask

[@MikeBarbarossa]

He ultimately became... burning man

[@Tw0Dots]

Probably wondered why how one burns when it was unavoidable

[@alexandrarodriguezdetio7682]

It was... Really hard. Traumatic, completely.

[@alexandrarodriguezdetio7682]

It still haunts us.

[@elezer7396]

Can we all agree that mrballen is the best story teller?

[@burhanuddinbismillah2372]

I agree

[@Idk-ig1mr]

Yes I agree

[@dustinsmith2114]

ABSOLUTELY

[@AussieJen]

Yes. Yes we can. ❤️

[@ed_1223]

Yes

[@hellowilson5335]

Im not Australian but I am Floridian and it amazes me people would jump into any unknown water you can’t see through. That’s just literally insane.

[@stuckbetweenfandoms5138]

every time mr. ballen goes into detail about what someone was thinking or feeling at the time, i let out a sigh of relief knowing that they'll live

[@RocketCycleGaming]

Same lol

[@fudzzz]

Haha yep me too

[@ashkidrules123]

Bruh everyone he talked about died, tf are you talkin about

[@stuckbetweenfandoms5138]

@@ashkidrules123 people in all of the stories lived my guy, there was just at least one death

[@ashkidrules123]

@@stuckbetweenfandoms5138 Every main character died. You commented like no one died lol

[@moonbeammoonbeam5739]

I feel Aaron may have been struggling with his mental health and was at breaking point. No family wants to think their loved one would commit suicide. People with severe depression are very good at hiding how they feel.

[@lillianhite9474]

I think he saw something that made him run in there, do you have any other close ideas?

[@Kspice9000]

@@lillianhite9474 Scopolamine the zombie slave drug. Untraceable unless specifically looked for.

[@kennethburmeister8119]

Some people are overly enticed by fire as a natural element. I have heard from those that really enjoy fire they see dancing "spirits" in large fires, perhaps it was a primal drive that drove him to go meet what he saw.

[@huh968]

he could have just been delusional or on drugs man, suicide is no more likely than anything else as long as we don't know more

[@prava163]

@Jefferson Keane Aaron was obviously high as the sky. I bet drugs are more common than water at Burning Man.

[@KitsuyuutsuR]

That first story was so heartbreaking. To marry the love of your life and have him die from a shark attack 10 days later on your honeymoon… I can’t even imagine what pain poor Gemma was going through.

[@ProctorSilex]

I can't imagine the pain of getting half eaten by a shark then dying mute in front of your wife.

[@ickleshouse]

😢

[@masterson0713]

Her and him.. damn.. that poor man

[@arcane._.babes0905]

SOBBING :(((

[@denisebacher5040]

I started sobbing and had to stop video. Just truly so heartbreaking.😢😢

[@carlosm.devasconcelllos3939]

I've been looking for someone who knew this sad story... I finally found it. This account of Jane detailing that she made eye contact with Ginger, fully trapped in the crocodile's jaws with a confused look on her face is touching. Another detail I remembered was the captain who said that when he saw the crocodile, it was in "torpedo mode", which is when crocodiles swim at very high speeds, which is rare, as they save energy, and this fact demonstrates that he he must have been starving inside that lake without food. Poor Ginger.

[@sherimcgee1587]

or he just doesn't like people.

[@sinanaldulaymi4103]

@@sherimcgee1587 More like it loves people. Eating them at least

[@debrajones4010]

But if you look at it from a different perspective, it was like Ginger saved Jane. Almost like she sacrificed her life to save Jane. I know when Jane looked into her eyes, it probably caused her the most painful ptsd. It was so sad.

[@weentersoldier4576]

The honeymoon story is such a tragedy 😭 not even ten days married and death has already done torn apart. Rest In Peace, Ian,

[@hoodvibes8600]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/Z5qXao2adtGDgLc

[@weentersoldier4576]

@@hoodvibes8600 this you? I was expecting a Rick roll 😂

[@jessjames1216]

Not even enough time for her to get life insurance on him

[@Footy_Fan]

The story of Ian and Gemma brought tears out of this 51 year old man's eyes. I get so crushed when I hear stories like this. It hurts as if I actually knew them.

[@DarylBoshears]

I agree, the story of Carol and Reggie made me feel the same way!

[@AmberAmber]

@Footy Fan Same - 47yo lass but I cried like an infant. Your comment is SO Sweet!!❤💗🫂

[@AmberAmber]

@@DarylBoshears xo same

[@Footy_Fan]

@@AmberAmber thank you so much for your kind and supportive words. May you have a truly blessed and very merry Christmas.

[@barrronessa]

@@Footy_Fan what a beautiful wholesome comment section. have a safe, wonderful christmas all 🤍

[@lauraduplooy]

"...and he and the other crew members not named Jane..." LOVE it! You're better than story time at the library growing up. I'm 45 and loving storytime again

[@beyji1plays839]

The worst part about that story was that Jane wanted to turn back but ginger said no so then ginger got told no by the alligator

[@enimsaj.jasmine]

Bh

[@greyl9901]

can i just say thank you for not being one of those true crime storytellers that just flashes cheap scares across the screen that have nothing to do with the story. you actually do research and find pictures, and that’s so cool

[@ef5supercell]

i watch his videos while i work on 3d modeling, and he's probably the only "sp00py scary story teller" youtuber than i feel comfortable watching and not scrolled down into the comments

[@angelicamichelle1646]

Exactly I HATE it when they are such fakers

[@deandredumas9007]

Idly but I literally just have the pic of Aaron running into the burning man just paused idly I can’t stop looking at it

[@clairehopkins2094]

I truly dislike the jump scare eye ball flashes on some channels. So unnecessary. My heart is already on edge. And now I’m frightened by eye balls… thanks mr ballen for real photos and no jump scares.

[@HelloWorld72459]

I love this guy ,he is not clickbait, he comes right to the point after a small introduction ,excellent storyteller, his entire video is worth it even if it is 1 hour and most of all dark and mysterious delivered in story format

[@ibanheadhunter8317]

This is why he is the best story teller in my opinion.

[@Syclone0044]

“and most of all dark and mysterious delivered in story format”

[@dogtrainerjen]

I wish they were an hour! Can't get enough of these amazing stories!

[@TarotTrismagistus]

Yes yes. I agree. I love that he never has long intros talking about personal life things I don’t care about taking up half the video like other youtubers. Like get oooon with it lol Get’s to it, doesn’t drag, posts a lot, always amazing stories told very well (lots of foreshadowing👌), I could go onn. Most of all, I love how you always introduce the like button. Very thoughtful, very unique, you put in work for that like button & yet you don’t tell us we have to do it as well as when you tell us to subscribe; I love that you say ‘’IF you like...subscribe etc.’’ I alwatys said I would say something like that if I ever started a channel. Very humbling & makes me want to unsubscribe every time just to resubscribe again😆 You put in the work & it shows! You really stand out & are my favorite channel!!! Thank you for always making so many videos because I can’t get enough!!! Keep them coming!!!

[@MrBallen]

Thank you!!

[@malkavianfreak]

I actually screamed when the two women got into the water (during the second story). Salt water crocs are very dangerous and there are some places where they are actively known to hunt humans, not for food, but because they can. At least one person has been attacked while sleeping in their tent. Do not get into the murky water up the northern parts of Australia. It's beautiful, peacful, and much like the rest of the country, it's full of danger.

[@anderschristensen4072]

if they can,its also for food.

[@nekograce7914]

Me too. Never jump into water in Australia. Idk where Jane was from but I’m guessing she was also not Australian. I say this as not an Australian.

[@IsraelCountryCube]

@@nekograce7914 yup. I'd say every non Australian or non African. Or non Florida man and woman. Who in their country or states provinces who have dangerous crocodiles would not jump into the water.

[@OGStarlightKY]

That’s why they should’ve listened to their boss.

[@Slipperygecko390]

Not even the clear water bro. Crocs can hide on the bottom completely invisible to a person

[@graedot]

Poor Gemma. I can't imagine. I hope she still has her home and good memories.

[@atmywhitson]

I hope she sued the resort for not putting up warnings for the bull 🦈 I can't imagine the pain and only ten days married 🥺😢

[@theForrestGalantey]

Gemma was living a real time hell poor pretty lady hope she was able to find happiness after that trauma. Who is the pale looking ghost on the right at 7:32?

[@joysanders59]

Isn’t that the most horrible thing!? I feel for both of them.

[@downhomesunset]

@@theForrestGalantey IDK-but height wise and from what features I can see-it kind of looks like him……..

[@unmalo2768]

@@downhomesunset - Holy Crap!!! IT is him!!!!! That is weird!!!!!

[@VonnieVon2009]

I’m American and the second story was wild to me. Even I, an American, was like, “It’s Australia! Why would you do that!” Besides Ginger and Jane’s dumb decisions, I think it was also dumb of the captain to even suggest going up the cliff face. What if someone fell while climbing? Instant Croc food. Plus there were no easy ways out of the water, just cliff faces. Everyone in that situation was dumb.

[@Iron-Bridge]

Exactly. He should have accounted for people doing dumb stuff or forgetting safety instructions.

[@aerostrafe1075]

@@Iron-Bridge TO be fair, you can never fully account for stupid.

[@sharifeekes9069]

Even here in the US there is a large portion of the southeast where I would be hesitant to get in a swimming pool let alone a natural body of water. Any form of alligator scares the crap out of me! Being eaten would be horrible Beyond horrible!

[@Jimmy94411]

Why go to Australia at all? It’s a hellhole of stupidity and evil.

[@williamkane]

"it's australia" found the brainwashed american, you probably also believe in killer-koalas / drop bears

[@jessicatrombley8185]

Mr B you are the oficial story teller for adults. Like “Reading Rainbow” for grownups. The stories are mesmerizing. Thank you for your work and for sharing your talents.

[@MrBallen]

I loved that show! Thanks!!

[@kera9389]

A very scary reading rainbow lol 😂

[@makaelaautumn]

No really, even my grandma loves him!! Shes 75 😊

[@_JustJoe]

I’m 15 and I love him too

[@NeetzBeats]

The last story sounds to me like a guy that couldn't find himself, left his wife to go get some peace - secretly depressed. But to do that at such a huge event makes me feel like he wanted to be remembered but for all the wrong reasons.

[@sdrocky123]

Yes. His last adventure. Been everywhere done everything. Nothing left to do. The future must have looked grim. Decided to see what was on the other side of that final horizon. Truly sad.

[@emp9413]

@@sdrocky123 lol very considerate of him

[@ThatCarGuy1983]

@@レナチャン-q3g Why do you have a picture of a doll? Weird bot

[@XMachete]

My take as well. The story is set up to lead to that conclusion so I think that's the most common interpretation. Loved his wife but hated that lifestyle. Couldn't bear to leave her but couldn't go back to that. Took his last journey. Then took to the flames. But the world wasn't done with him yet and balanced his pain ledger before letting him go.

[@AlexFlockhart]

@@ThatCarGuy1983 Don't reply to them, just report

[@Nenezilla]

Never look away while a loved one is in the water. I almost lost my husband in a rip current many years ago. I had to swim out to rescue him, and by the powers that be, we got back to shore by swimming side-ways. I''ll never look away again. Thank you!

[@corinnepmorrison1854]

Riptides can be terrifying... Got caught in one over 60 years ago... Swam sideways/diagonally back to shore...and walked over a mile along the shore...to get back to my family and friends...

[@Nenezilla]

@@corinnepmorrison1854 agree, it was scary and has left a lasting impression on us forever. Glad we all made it out alive. Best wishes.

[@alexia3552]

When it comes to nature, I plan to always stick to the buddy system. Nature doesn't give a shit about you.

[@akiraackerman4780]

Im glad he made it 😁 be careful

[@Nenezilla]

@@akiraackerman4780 - thank you!

[@howardatkins4357]

please keep what you're doing man please keep it up doing a great job

[@beemelonhead1]

I can't imagine looking your lover in the eyes and watching the life fade out and not being able to do anything about it. So sad. At least Ian and Gemma got to spend 6 yrs together and they got their dream wedding and vacation even though it turned into a nightmare. My heart goes out to you Gemma.

[@h.s.6269]

That would be hugely traumatic for the one who survives obviously, but I can't help but think that I'm glad he was able to have a moment of peace with her before dying. He at least didn't die in the water alone, but with his love right by his side. It would be absolutely devastating for her to live with though. I just hope that being able to meet his wife's gaze brought him a little peace instead of regret that it's ending so early on in their lives together. It's like a punch to the gut just thinking about it.

[@timons777]

Please, don't EVER stop with this channel!!!! You are best storyteller!

[@tannahrichens8157]

The first story is so infuriating because of how preventable it was. How hard would it have been to put up signs and warnings on the beach?!?!

[@shoniiya_9379]

I hope she sued them, because that's complete negligence on their part.

[@garymarko409]

That Would Be Bad For Business They Could Care Less If A Shark Eats Someone It's About The Money

[@steson]

Talk about preventable (sorry I'm late) is #2. For 1 you're Australia...duh... For number 2 the guy told everyone they were in there.

[@mykaillabrewer8094]

Or have enough common sense to head the warning of their boss who TOLD them NOT to swim in that water and WHY they can't. For Common sensed people, that would have been enough. I hate seeing warnings on things that are OBVIOUSLY risk taking or dangerous 😒 🙄

[@CassandraMiyuki]

There's always someone behind the reason why signs get posted, most of the time it's a common sense instant like the hot temperature warnings on Starbucks coffee cups and instant noodle bowls or the dangers of inevitable death. These days common sense could be considered a super power with how dumb people act. Having worked in retail for a good couple of years, I have noticed that people often don't read the signs that are posted; sales, store rules/policies, store hours, even signs pointing out where to line up to check out. I'm not so sure about signs around vacation sites, but I've come across many stories and news clips explicitly describing posted signs getting ignored; warnings of dangerous conditions/animals, "stay on the path" signs in national parks, no trespassing, etc. People seem to forget how to read. Even in large stores that have signs showing what's available in each aisle go ignored.

[@sterlingfink2810]

I think Aaron got overwhelmed by l'appel du vide -- or l'appel du feu, in his case. You don't have to be on drugs to be temporarily out of your mind.

[@onlinefornow]

I was thinking that as well-- also because he seemed to have restlessness already in his mind and throughout his life, so this could have been that restlessness getting triggered around all that energy from the fire and the people cheering around it...

[@ijustrealllylikecats]

Oh poor poor Gemma. I can't even wrap my mind around the trauma and horror of losing a husband like that, especially on their honeymoon, right after getting married. I hope she's healing and doing alright, my heart aches for her.

[@martinkujur6311]

I hope they capture that bullshark

[@paulwoodford6229]

She planned it

[@laurenbeech4744]

@@paulwoodford6229 what are you 10? Your sick have some respect dammm

[@onefishinthepond]

@@laurenbeech4744 he’s been commenting on every comment about her, he’s just a troll

[@angelapyle7301]

@@paulwoodford6229 K, your just trolling us😂😂

[@gothic.kitty6664]

I’m so unbelievably sad for Ian and Jemma, I hope she has found peace with her loss. That’s so heartbreaking

[@ibanheadhunter8317]

Yeah

[@MollyFC]

Ikr? I seriously teared up at the funeral photo, felt so bad for her 🥺

[@olliepoplol5894]

So sad :(

[@Nikkilou36]

I know, my heart broke for her! 💔💔 I hope wherever she is she is ok and found happiness! 💖💖

[@ItssAudacity]

Why have all these bots promoting sex stuff on everything these days ?? Proper ruining comments

[@a-a-ron6822]

While i find a lot of these stories heartbreaking, i still can't seem to get enough of em.. Appreciate all you and your crew does getting these stories out there.. Thanks, bud

[@DaveSCameron]

Make sure that you have some stories of your own life to pass on to your descendants there 😉

[@paulanthony5274]

Creep

[@a-a-ron6822]

@@DaveSCameron not sure why you're concerned with me, but ok man, have a good day..

[@DaveSCameron]

@@a-a-ron6822 Ohhh get on you there, all sensitive and uncomfortable 😉

[@DaveSCameron]

@@paulanthony5274 Who is?

[@ClaytonJonesImages]

The first story made me sad. It's especially heartbreaking when people who were legitimately meant for each other (unlike most people) and have forged something amazing be abruptly torn apart during what is supposed to be one of the best moments of their lives :( Edit: despite the tragic circumstances, that is a super badass photo of Aaron charging into the fire

[@DiamondCake2]

😂😂😂😂

[@charisselinnell-morton4137]

When I listened to the story about Burning Man , it reminded me of something… “ Call of the Void.” It’s experienced by most of the population.The fact that he is sober actually makes it more plausible.We see many examples of this when people go to a high place like a cliff or the top of a building to actually get as close to the edge as possible and they will go right to the edge and then they report that it gives them a feeling of control over their own destiny.There’s a case of a female on a cruise ship who had zero problems with depression or anxiety but after having a wonderful night with her friends and family we see on film that she is walking back to her cabin laughing and having a great time and then she runs as fast as she can and then she launches herself off the side of this massive cruise ship.She was seemingly normal with not one precursor that would indicate that she was suicidal. Some people theorize that this might be a glitch in the way the brain is actually relaying messages . Instead of the person just looking in the VOID the brain almost is too late or simply overrides the instinct to survive. In simple terms the brain issues this message to go to the edge but the brain doesn’t relay the safety aspect.People who have survived this talk about an overwhelming feeling that they must go to the very edge but they have no clue why they simply can’t stop. Almost all report that they have no control and they get an overwhelming stop feeling but it is a fraction of a second late. Many people have written and studied this .

[@susanandrews2294]

Wow, incredible. Thanks for the info!

[@ziziflor9019]

That sounds so scary...

[@ericalampley480]

Jesus. But I kinda get it. Which also scares the shit out of me.

[@Mac-mp4kj]

Wow this makes a lot of sense. Thanks for this info, now I have something to do some research on

[@C.C.Sophia528]

L’appelle au vide…

[@kajfjd]

Ginger acted like a standard character in a classic horror movie who takes one after another bad decisions : Got this much likes for the first time ty guys

[@pollypockets508]

Exactly. I was just like "really?" the whole time.

[@MikeBarbarossa]

And she's always trying to get Gilligan hard

[@caitlinjohnson1470]

@@pollypockets508 ☠️☠️😭me too

[@theodour8617]

Just like your Mom

[@theodour8617]

@@MikeBarbarossa me too

[@kyokrush6183]

Honestly I've been watching these type of "horror" style KZbin videos for like 10 years and MrBallen is by far the best. I've heard a hand full of some of the stores he's told, but he just tells them so much better. I'm always super excited when I see a new episode uploaded! Thanks man love you're work. I'd love to see you put a logo on your merch if you haven't already.

[@carol127v]

he's so good he pretty much ruined all other channels for me though hahahah everytime i wanna watch something all i can think about is "i wish it was mrballen narrating this.."

[@cassandranoveen5152]

The way he expresses himself with his voice as well as his facial expressions and hands is soooo good, but then add in the subtle background sounds and I find myself getting chills and creeped out 😩 he definitely tells stories in a captivating way

[@lucymacdonald7601]

It's stories like "Burning Man" that beg the question; "Do we really know the people who we claim to know very well?" I knew a guy for 20 yrs and held him in very high regard. He was a gentle, generous and loving man to all he met and always had some good advice to offer just when I needed it. Imagine my utter shock when I awoke to some breaking news of him leading police on a wild goose chase through rural Nova Scotia, Canada in a mocked up RCMP vehicle, dressed like an RCMP officer and with a string of 22 murders he committed along the way before being gunned down by officers at a gas station. Does One really know what the people they THINK they know are capable of?

[@ninayoakum1429]

⁠@DeerDeer777I found a news story from April 2020 that seems to fit this description. The man’s name was Gabriel Wortman. I’d like to see MrBallen cover that story.

[@DiamondCake2]

Sounds like a total badass.

[@paul_4881]

@@DiamondCake2 fr

[@paul_4881]

@@ninayoakum1429 i agree, sounds worthy of a video!

[@simonbrown4164]

That last story is unfathomable. If you've ever been anywhere near a really big fire, you'll know how intense the heat is from even over a hundred feet away. How anyone could charge headlong into that, and be apparently completely sober, is mind-boggling

[@IchimatsuTrashneko]

Yeah near my ranch there was a huge brush fire. I was sweating profusely and I wasn't even that close. I'm pretty sure he was on shrooms

[@kayleigh3648]

His family insisting it’s not a suicide are delusional! Unless he was taking drug(s) that don’t show up on typical toxicology reports... But in any case, if this was truly an accident, he would’ve felt the heat burning his skin when he got close and would’ve turned back into the other direction if he really wanted to live 🤷‍♀️

[@bellakeksi8313]

@@IchimatsuTrashneko that would've shown in the report the fact that they did a toxicology report means he must've been checked for psychoactive substances as well I just can't get over how it doesn't make sense

[@droidsxi3271]

Burning man? Only 2 minutes into the video

[@droidsxi3271]

Research chems aren't on a lot of tox screens.

[@CarrotFlowers421]

Aaron was clearly an adrenaline junkie but to a debilitating degree. He wouldn't need to have been under the influence, suicidal or even mentally ill to decide to do this. There is something called the High Place Phenomena which we've all experienced to lesser degrees; staring over a ledge and imagining jumping off and this response is guessed to be a desire to reduce anxiety of vertigo. It doesn't really make sense but it all takes part in the amygdala where we process fear and adrenaline. I can imagine how someone who has an unusual amount of activity in that part of the brain would feel that pull to a degree they couldn't resist.

[@BasedZoomer]

That feeling is literally why I have a fear of heights. Like I'll look over the edge, I'll imagine what if I jumped or fell, then I imagine all the pain or the awful gory death. Now I'm at the point I dont even like to be in high places because I have, no joke, traumatized myself with that line of thinking over the course of my life. I've never even taken a significant fall.

[@CarrotFlowers421]

@@BasedZoomer people who are adrenaline junkies experience that "rush" but they associate endorphins and seratonin when they do the behaviors that create that feeling. You can tell he was addicted to the feeling because he'd "go sober" from it by settling down yet felt empty without that rush. You could tell that normal happy experiences weren't enough for him. He made it seem like he only felt "happy" I.e, felt dopamine and seratonin, when he felt adrenaline. He got his "fix" at burning man and it sent him to overdose which is directly related to how long he had been without this stimulation. If you think of it like the addiction it was, I think it explains what happened.

[@Queen_at_the_Crossroads]

@@CarrotFlowers421 Wow thats a perfect way of describing it! Very informative! Thank you!!

[@brendaleary9281]

I thought that I was the only one that looks over and feel a drawing. The bridge in a city in my state always memorized me. I didn't tell anybody. And I'm glad, because today anything can become a fad with social media. Its just a mind fake young people. Don't do it 👍

[@tinydream]

Many adrenaline junkies have Bipolar type 2, possibly unknown and/or untreated and many seek out very dangerous thrill seeking experiences. Also, many people struggling to find themselves go to Burning Man and have something similar to a very intense religious experience, euphoria, and it can be overwhelming and sometimes they feel invincible from it. It’s very common. It’s also at a higher elevation, which can be difficulty on some people mentally. If he had a mental illness plus felt this god complex from attending, I could see this happening, unfortunately. I’ve been to BM and it’s shocking how few people get seriously injured or die there considering how reckless many of them can be. There are very nice, chill people, too, but this type of psychosis/invincible behavior is rampant there.

[@OnlyAtJaMart]

You do a better job establishing people’s characters in your stories, than most movies. Movies where you’re supposed to “feel” for the character, so when they meet a grim fate, it’s supposed to be impactful.

[@SuperWhatapain]

Agreed! He's a great story teller. And I believe he DOES care about the victims and it shows.

[@josellers1376]

The Australia one, hiking to the top of the water fall was ok as long as you are prepared. However, getting into murky water in northern Australia where saltwater and freshwater crocodiles are common and dangerous. That was stupid, I feel so sorry for the girls but that was a bad decision. May God bless those people and keep them safe.

[@didierfc]

Never trust australia, ya never know when it’s gonna launch a creature at you

[@fletchbtw6244]

Rip to everyone is this video who was mentioned and to the families condolences to them all and mr b you continue to amaze me how your storytelling is just the best out there honestly hands down the best KZbinr right now for me

[@fletchbtw6244]

@@Dantesse ksi is a KZbin legend so I’ve got to use it

[@calyguard2731]

I swear he is absolutely amazing

[@fletchbtw6244]

@@calyguard2731 100% agree

[@alexdenton1174]

@@Dantesse lmao

[@JojoAndBay135]

I can’t even imagine the pain Gemma would be in. Being in such a high from just being married and starting the rest of your lives together only for it to be torn away from her less than 2 weeks after the wedding. I would never be able to heal from that.

[@MrBallen]

So sad

[@ibanheadhunter8317]

@@MrBallen yeah

[@lukemather9653]

This Justin.

[@alexkela7956]

She's a warrior. But you could get get through it also because you are a also a warrior.

[@Kari.F.]

Poor young lady! I hope whoever botched the process of warning the visitors about the shark was held responsible, and had to pay her a nice amount of money. Not that money will heal her grief, but at least she would be able to keep their dream house. If she still wanted to stay in a home that is a constant reminder of how happy they were. Horrible, horrible tragedy.

[@Danica.Powell]

Yeah, as another Australian, do not jump in murky water..actually don't jump in any water if you don't know what's in it. This country is heaving with monstrous creatures. Thanks Mr Ballen, you are great and your stories help get me through some really hard stuff that's happened and thank you for that and for the way you care about everyone in the stories you tell.

[@vanesapriest4378]

Once again and again and again, you have a special way of telling the story, it pulls me in, makes me think and then I look for mote to listen to. Your voice and how you do your research makes it so appealing to enjoy hearing. The topics are great and your personality shines through with every word. Thanks for sharing that with us listeners.

[@mania_yt]

The moment I heard about a large pool of fresh water in the middle of the wilderness, I knew this was gonna end badly. Fresh water doesn't just attract humans and sailors, but ALL predators. It's hunting 101.

[@vinnyinglis448]

I can imagine the bed time story's you tell your kids. Must be great. Keep up the great work. Just can't get enough of your stories. Have a great night.

[@Tlyna1952]

Especially one that is just upriver from the ocean in Australia. Salt water crocs or bull sharks come to mind immediately.

[@thebob3712]

Im in Perth and you don't go swimming in any waters up in the Kimberley area, the top end is full of crocs. There are some fresh water pools that you can go in but you better make sure you know the right ones to go in

[@salpon]

Maybe in Africa. This was a salt-water crocodile attack. The waterfall was fresh water but it ran into a brackish salt water pool. Australia doesn't have any large predators that are attracted to fresh water.

[@mania_yt]

@@salpon Yeah, I get that. But just to be safe, I wouldn't go near a fresh water waterfall, even though the pool underneath would be salt water. It's not just about the large predators but also spiders, snakes and other dangerous animals. I don't know if this specific region is home to these animals, but just to be safe I would try to avoid spending more time than needed there (maybe I have watched too many Mr Ballen stories 😅)

[@Dee-us3jg]

As soon as you mentioned Australia I thought “oh crap here we go..”. I’ve learned a lot from your videos and these tragedies, one of these things being to NEVER get into ANY body of water in Australia that doesn’t have a sign indicating it is safe to swim.

[@joannemurdock7899]

Dee I agree with u! Always play it safe!

[@kakashiinabox]

Even better- No Water Ever in Australia, those bodies of water MIGHT have powerful detour-ants but a massive Salty or Bull Shark that's actually determined enough will find a way in one way or another.

[@leonieromanes7265]

@@kentonbenoit9629 you guys do have more than your fair share of sharks and saltwater crocks.

[@jacksfishing3024]

Ur all good if u swim anywhere below where south Australia and Northern Territory meet, it is too cold for salties down south and ya don’t get boxies and irakanjies

[@Stoicijnsestemmen]

@@kentonbenoit9629 mate eat a snickers you’re hangry!

[@MountStupid]

The image of Aaron running into the flames looks so epic. It’s a shame it’s attached to a tragic story

[@Ruthless_Regg]

Looks straight from the show Vikings

[@TheRealLikeButton]

And he wore nothing except shoAnd he wore nothing except shoes and carried a water bottle. That heat might burn his feet, and I'm sure he would get very thirsty. The man was prepared as one could be in that situation.

[@doomjuice.1652]

this might sound crazy but what if he tried to run through the burning man as a fun thingy

[@doomjuice.1652]

Never mind

[@summerloyd4105]

Thanks for the massive respect in telling the last story "Burning Man". My G.F. was there in 2017, it was her last "Burn", after this incident she has decided not to return. She has spoken about it a few times to me, and said it was very traumatic for everyone who did see him run in. People were stunned and crying and silent. She has said that he seemed absolutely determined to run into the flames and it was certainly no accident on his part. She has also mentioned that she feels bad, not for the man who ran into the flames, but for all of the people that had to witness this awful moment, at the height of what was supposed to be the climax of joy and jubilation for this social "experiment", was now a traumatic memory burned (excuse the pun) into their minds, including children. Yes, there are children and families that go to burning man, of course.

[@luhsavage8200]

I love how he makes it seem like he knew everyone personally while telling their story

[@bucketsproductions.8493]

facts

[@Kyle_302]

Yea true

[@sbuttonblossom9286]

Usually. But "seniors" in England , was the spell broken this time.

[@kentonbenoit9629]

Just shut up 🤫

[@iwilleatyourtoeswhenusleep7468]

@@kentonbenoit9629 wat do u mean?

[@The_SCPFoundation]

I remember when we were spoiled with 3,4 and even 5 videos per week from the Flannel Legend. I use to think it's no way to keep this pace with content THIS amazing. I'm glad Mr Ballen chose quality over quantity when the decision had to be made for the channel. The content is even more enjoyable and well worth the wait. We appreciate the effort you put into the strange, dark and mysterious delivered in story format.

[@michaelkim8834]

Yea 5 times a week was soooooo good! Now i gotta wait so long in between videos. He even commented after his small break, about how the like button was slowly making less videos. 😂

[@michaelkim8834]

Kinda feels like the old days where you had to wait a whole week for the next episode for your favorite show.

[@annalucy89]

I don't agree. I think the quality of his stories were just as good when he was making more video as they are now.

[@timlenard1646]

@Wakkad Sound yes they were then but after covering so much content the stories began to run out and instead of just pumping out 3-4 or 5 videos a week of lesser quality just to meet a quota it's much better to wait and give 1 quality video...

[@lmckinley145]

5x or 1x a week. Just do what you gotta do to not burn out. I love your content too much.

[@exploringwithnug]

I love these stories. I can't get enough of them. Keep it up!!!

[@FritaLay]

🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥

[@ORIONVIIXI]

Same

[@MrBallen]

Right on!! Thank you!

[@ibanheadhunter8317]

@@MrBallen I can never get bored with your stories. Your channel has grown so much over the years. I may sound like a parent but I'm proud of you.

[@theinsufferablebutthole8923]

I JUST FARTED!!!!!

[@loveforkuja]

Aaron might have thought he could just run in and right back out. it's really sad but some people can be told a million times not to do something and how dangerous it is and still do it because they either think it won't happen to them or it's not as dangerous as they've been told... then again sometimes people who seem happy are secretly suicidal.

[@elexiabaldwin469]

2017 was not my first Burn, but it will be my last. I watched this happen and it was so sad/terrible/shocking. I remember the Sandmen stopping him and pulling him back and thinking, "Thank God, they stopped him." And then watching him break free from them and run straight into the fire. I never want to see anything like this ever again.

[@raider7829]

Horrible! So sorry you saw this.

[@fuzbcuz7613]

That is such a horrific thing to have witnessed. If you experience PTSD, I wouldn't be surprised. Please take care of yourself. ❤️

[@ghetoknight7801]

I swear I've seen this as a story on a book before

[@strange_celestial]

@@ghetoknight7801 He wanted to be the "Burning Man." A tragic legend. Now immortalized forever. He knew this. Selfish lol Ego will do what it wants. Even if it means DEATH.

[@Scott-fy7fm]

​@@strange_celestialpeople with severe mental health issues should not be simply judged as selfish. I can completely empathize with him wanting to go out that way, I am borderline suicidal and I can actually see the appeal if it wasn't so traumatic to so many others

[@jackdurden466]

Damn, those are all so tragic. Yet the first one truly brought a tear to my eye in sadness for the poor newlywed woman. The 2nd tale is horrifying, and I wouldn’t wish it upon anyone, yet they were warned and decided to ignore that. Now that by no means makes it ok, or less severe, but it does, much like Aaron’s story, make you ask, Why???

[@lizcaddy6316]

You must be the most interesting person in the room in any situation with your incredible and compelling storytelling skills! You deserve your 5+ million!

[@MrBallen]

I don’t know about that but thank you!!

[@ananasbanana]

These are not his stories though...

[@verteabrae]

@@ananasbanana She said his storytelling skills, not his stories

[@ananasbanana]

@@verteabrae You can’t tell stories by reading off of notes IRL, that’s not compelling

[@deadly5881]

@@ananasbanana that doesn’t make any sense.

[@janetbanda7846]

Watching from Lusaka Zambia. Totally addicted to your story telling 😊

[@paul_4881]

👍👍👍👍👍

[@petesmithson1906]

Other than the strange, dark, and mysterious, I'm a huge fan of the animated hand gestures. Love your channel sir. Thank you for your service to our country and your commitment to our entertainment!

[@MrBallen]

Hahah

[@petesmithson1906]

@@MrBallen My week has been made! I got a heart and comment from the legend himself! Enjoy your holidays everyone.

[@ibanheadhunter8317]

@@petesmithson1906 congrats.👏

[@petesmithson1906]

@@ibanheadhunter8317 Thanks! Have an awesome day!

[@ibanheadhunter8317]

@@petesmithson1906 you too.

[@a.m11558]

I'm Australian, and as soon as i heard you say the name Ginger Meadows my heart sank. I love your videos Mr. Ballen, they're so much more important than a lot of people might realise. It's just the perfect format of story telling Edit: Not gonna lie i'm kinda irritated that people manage to find something to argue with each other about when it's someone's life. I'm not talking about the people saying what she did was dumb, because it certainly was to put it bluntly, but it would be nice if people could have a bit of sympathy. She was a young woman with her whole life ahead of her, you wouldn't see people saying that about Natalie Wood or Sharon Tate, at least i hope not.

[@Cyphon]

This was her fault though

[@HRRRRRDRRRRR]

Stop guys, I can't handle the edge. We get it, you just learnt about cause and effect at school, but do try and progress past that dissociated mess of a personality you've got.

[@a.m11558]

@@Cyphon I know that but it’s still a tragic thing. When I was six my granddad got me a book on crocodile attacks, and it was the first time I ever learned about Ginger’s death. It had pictures and everything, horrible but morbidly fascinating.

[@MrZombiejoe]

Hey Man, do you know if those Pictures of Ginger are Real???

[@a.m11558]

@@MrZombiejoe I’m not sure I can’t find the book I had as a kid anywhere, I guess you can look them up online

[@amyoung101]

I didn’t realize the origin story of Burning Man festival until this video. Love being entertained and educated at the same time! As always, great storytelling by Mr. Ballen!

[@CS-uc2oh]

And you still haven't realized it because this one is false.

[@DaveSCameron]

That's because the etymology of the Burning Man is of course the 1960s movie starring Edward Woodward on a remote Scottish Island 🏝

[@Watercloud-11]

The Case of Aaron at Burning man seems like an oddly real life example of Icarus flying to close to the sun. Perhaps he was so inflated and excited that he thought it was a good idea to sacrifice himself, something like a manic psychosis episode.

[@brendanbishop3684]

He may of been schizophrenic or had the onset so was never diagnosed, a schizophrenic will not be aware they are because there mental health just feels normal at that moment in time, if they hear voices, they think that there real. That's a haunting picture, reminds me of Avatar the male lead character.

[@debrajones4010]

@@brendanbishop3684I would have to agree that there was some mental health issues that went undiagnosed due to the fact that he couldn’t keep his mind focused on something for long. By him traveling all over, he most likely thought that he was ok when in fact his mind would be racing and then at some point it was causing him to have erratic behavior. Very sad situation.

[@jeremyn4397]

I was a fire performer at burning man the year after Aaron's story occurred. They have significantly increased security detail around the man burn. You would have to get past the first wall of Rangers, past us fire performers, then past more rangers. That inferno burns so hot that even when I was some 50 meters away I couldn't look at it for more than a few seconds at a time without it burning my face. Quite an incredible experience.

[@novella8300]

That picture of him running is crazy.

[@matthewmontalvo6795]

I could feel the intense heat from way out in the crowd. I feel sorry for the rangers who have to guard it.

[@reyariass]

Wait, how do you become a ranger? I thought it was just random people coming together to build stuff? So would that mean I could go if I decide to become a ranger and just stay near the burning man to prevent other people from getting too close?

[@4PartsWhisky]

@@reyariass You have to go to Burning Man at least twice before you can be a ranger. Rangers are basically burners who volunteer to walk around the entire event and be the "adult" should anyone need anything. They have been trained and walk around in pairs. It is a pretty popular role for burners so I am not sure how easy it is to actually get a shift as one as there is an application process. Standing perimeter for a burn is a little different. There are plenty of effigy burns throughout the week, so it's not just the man burn at the end.

[@1americanatlarge]

why did he do it? nobody even knows

[@julie.1081]

The bravery of those Rangers who went in after Aaron is incredible.

[@paulanthony5274]

Did they heck,ive heard loads of Ballen stories where he says things that didn't happen,your telling me a couple of guys ran into a fire,didnt happen

[@dzekadzenan6977]

@@paulanthony5274 so, who pulled him out of the fire and transported him to hospital?

[@paulanthony5274]

@@dzekadzenan6977 he only went in a short way and they put there arms in and pulled him out,god there's some gullible people on here,people don't run into fires

[@Steven_Bo1]

@@paulanthony5274 bro you are literally saying he rand into the fire…. Just not to the middle of it… if he died in 12 seconds he must’ve been pretty damn deep in the pit… do you have any research on the even or are you just talking out of your ass?

[@MarySmith-gi6bq]

@@paulanthony5274 chickens don't.

[@tylercooper9090]

I feel it's a happening called "The call of the void". It's usually associated with standing on top of a very high point & having the incredible urge to jump off, even though it would spell certain doom. I've experienced this many times in my life, but have never acted on it. Maybe he felt the same & acted on it.

[@gregh_777]

i used to think i was weird. i had the same thing. strange from an evolutionary stand point why we would feel an urge to essentially kill ourselves

[@reyannawynters1800]

Very weird and disturbing

[@ElaAusDemTal]

That was my thought, too....he was into meditation and fire can (at least for some people) induce a deep trance. If I'm not mistaken, that's where walking over hot coals comes from.

[@leelabizbee]

Is that what it's called. I thought I was suicidal even though I wasn't depressed or even feeling suicidal. I used to have the urge to throw myself in front of a speeding train or fast traffic. I've never even mentioned it to anyone before because I know they would think I was in a bad way but really wasn't. I'm not that weird yay

[@primrosedeluna]

I was looking for this! I couldn’t think of the name. I’ve actually suffered from it occasionally when I used to go on light hikes with friends so I ultimately stopped going. It’s a really weird feeling and I hate it bc you never know when your body will just act on it. I truly believe that’s what a Aaron felt, not so much of a suicidal thing, but a “I need to go through this” feeling.

[@aarfdood]

Funny how he's describing Aaron's behavior as not erratic while looking at a picture of him with a doll stuffed in his pants in pigtails.

[@Dr3amL1ght]

I noticed that, too 😂

[@abulrex_h4771]

i stg the way ballen was describing him made me think its impossible that he just decides to commit suicide and then i saw the pic and was like yeah that explains it lmaooo

[@wallys11000]

Yes, I was thinking he's not a well man.

[@rhondalong8136]

Facts

[@201hastings]

@@abulrex_h4771I mean that’s not even close to the weirdest outfit you’ll see at burning man.

[@shanice1549]

Ian & Jemma story was heartbreaking. They sacrificed so much to build a good life for themselves & their love sounds real genuine once in a lifetime type a situation. The death of a loved one is truly something I can't begin to imagine understand 💔

[@no_peace]

😭

[@brendanjordan1521]

That' Burning Man pic of Aaron is well haunting. The fact he was sober and not Mentally ill according to his friends and family is such a head scratcher. RIP Dude.

[@jennifervan75]

I think he was a thrillseeker. He probably thought he could just run trough it and go to the other side to meet his friends. It would be a cool story to tell etc. He just didn't think the flames could kill him probably.

[@bonnibeldelgadocolon2357]

@susan ivy I actually think the same thing. I do not see it as a suicide, he wanted to to a risky thrill-seeker thing but it went wrong when he made that turn in which made him trip into a fire section. I feel bad for the family.

[@davidortiz3094]

Don't have to be mentally ill or on drugs to be reckless or stupid

[@07foxmulder]

It’s best not to overthink the actions of idiots. Hand them their Darwin Award and move on.

[@Tbone272]

@@07foxmulder some thoughts we keep to ourselves bud. Thanks for sharing though. Edit: to clarify, you're contributing nothing, that isn't profound, and any 7th grader that half listened in science could bake up that 'joke' so I ask, why say it at all?

[@ello_mate8330]

Every time I watch your videos I’m like “I wanna try looking for the secret” but then I just get so intrigued in the story! Your such a good story teller!

[@brookekohlhofer3068]

Same. I have yet to even figure out what kind of secret it could be

[@ThaliaG12345]

28:36 The fact that this was a year ago and the burning man this year had literally happened the same way as the one a year before is absolutely crazy, someone died at burning man festival this year

[@aproudamerican2692]

If he was trying to run through it to meet his friends on the other side. The massive heat would have knocked him back to where he would have realized it wasn't possible. So I'm inclined to believe he was looking to be immortalized with the Statue by self deletion. He was never truly happy with his worldly experience. Maybe this was his big rush he was looking for. I was a firefighter EMT for several years and the heat coming off that tower would have melted his skin just 20 feet away.

[@secretdoorgaming2024]

Yes I agree though I also agree he thought he was this ultimate being just look at his tranformation from when he married his wife to that last image at the burning man. I think from his wanderings in Nepal he began to believe he was this spiritual being that could survive anything including being cleansed by the fire, he wanted to become one with the flame I think he thought in his mind that he would survive. His poor wife and family.

[@angelicamichelle1646]

1 wow that's cray 2 thank you you are a hero evey day to many. No matter what God loves you and I appreciate you 💖

[@sonjamurphy]

I heard Harlem, the comedian, talk about this recently on a podcast. He said that he was right in the front row area when Aaron ran out of circle and past the guards and he said he had watched him running around and being chased around by these guards who were wearing flame retardant clothing and then he slipped out of their grip and ran into the flames and dove into the burning man head first. They had grabbed him by his legs and pulled him out but the heat was so intense that he probably died pretty quickly from just breathing in the heat of the flames that it could have burned him inside his lungs the second he dove into the fire. 😢

[@daughterofpb]

Why would they burn an effigy of a man? Seems like they are making a curse or spell. Evil is real! Just make a regular bonfire. Festival organizers should consult an exorcist/minister/priest. No wonder this happened. Crazy!

[@nataliemcd9318]

We attend several regional burns here in Texas. My husband is a career firefighter who also volunteers on fire team at these burns. One of his fellow FF volunteers was one of the FFs who pulled him out of the effigy at BM. She didn't attend any burns after that for several years.

[@ravent2631]

Man, I feel bad for Gemma. That was a horrible sudden end to the life she'd just started. My dad has attended multiple years of Burning Man. He had lots of fun with those trips, and built quite a few structures. He was also a Ranger a couple times.

[@paulwoodford6229]

Gemma got a nice life insurance policy from his demise. She's happier than ever

[@EVERGLOW828]

I know that is so sad, I bet she wishes they had stayed home. May they meet again in Heaven ♥️🙏🏽 That’s very cool, I’ve always had a strange feeling about burning man though, seems ritualistic.

[@WesleyWyndam-Pryce]

Plot twist. Gemma was the shark.

[@beataluczaj8290]

@@WesleyWyndam-Pryce :0 OML-

[@keelyspalding261]

@@paulwoodford6229 yes because money makes her feel all better about the death of her lover and best friend in one, who’m she had just married 10 days earlier. You sound like a sociopath dude

[@karlj.claridge7949]

I can't help thinking that Aaron possibly imagined himself running through the Burning Man- emerging, on the other side, in front of everyone, as a kind of trial by fire.

[@maestro-zq8gu]

Yeah like maybe how when you wave your hand quickly through fire it doesn't burn you. Obviously different situation but yeah.

[@leoniidusgaming1258]

@mayora 13 i kinda feel it was more like he could handle his restlessness anymore. He knew this could be the last time he would be truely free and he could handle that realisation

[@ZenZaBill]

It's far too large and full of wood and pyro to "run through." When you visit "The Man" in the day it's quite large... with stairs on a large wood pedestal he stands on.

[@helenwood8482]

Seems like a classic suicide to me. He wanted to be there so his wife wouldn't have to deal with his suicide directly.

[@Redflowers9]

I felt the same about him