Dustin Mitchell Kjersem Death; – Law enforcement officials have announced the identification of a suspect linked to the murder of a Montana father, whose death was initially thought to be the result of a bear attack.
The Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office reported that a friend called 911 on October 12 after discovering 35-year-old Dustin Mitchell Kjersem deceased in a tent at a makeshift campsite located off Moose Creek Road, approximately 35 miles southwest of Bozeman. Initially, the friend informed dispatchers that Kjersem’s death seemed to be caused by a bear, as previously reported by officials.
In a recent update, Gallatin County S
According to Sheriff Springer, a suspect is currently in custody on unrelated charges. The identity of the suspect and the specific charges have not been disclosed; however, it has been confirmed that the individual is cooperating with detectives and has provided information that led to previously reported evidence in the case.
“It is believed that the suspect acted independently, and there is no ongoing threat to the community,” Springer stated. “Further details and charges will be provided in due course, but it is crucial for the community to understand that they can safely resume their outdoor activities.” An autopsy, along with additional evidence, indicated that Kjersem’s death was a homicide, revealing that he sustained “multiple chop wounds” to his face and body.
Officials had previously indicated that they were investigating the murder weapon, with the sheriff noting that it was sufficiently blunt to inflict severe damage to the victim’s skull and flesh. Authorities had also requested the public’s assistance in locating evidence believed to have been removed from the crime scene, including:
– A blue and silver Estwing camp axe, potentially with a 26-inch handle
– A wood stock Remington 11-87 12-gauge shotgun
– A Ruger Blackhawk .44 magazine revolver (blued, 4 5/8-inch barrel with wood grips)
– An orange YETI brand cooler (Tundra 45)
