Suspect arrested in killing of Montana camper that was reported as bear attack

A suspect has been taken into custody nearly three weeks after a Montana camper was found brutally killed in an attack that was initially reported as a bear attack, authorities said late Wednesday. The suspect was in custody on unrelated charges, authorities said.

The Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office said it had identified a suspect in the murder of Dustin Kjersem, who was found dead on October 12 in a tent about two-and-a-half miles up Moose Creek Road (east of Big Sky) after a friend who went looking for him called 911, telling the dispatcher that Kjersem appeared to have been attacked by a bear. After the 911 call, investigators from several agencies, including a bear expert from the Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife & Parks, examined the site but did not find any signs of bear activity.

According to the sheriff’s office, an autopsy later determined that the 35-year-old Kjersem had suffered “multiple chop wounds.” Investigators initially said they did not know what weapon was used, but Gallatin County Sheriff Dan Springer later said “we do know it was something hard enough to cause significant damage to the skull as well as some flesh areas of the body. He was brutally killed at his campsite.” The sheriff’s office noted that several items, including a camp axe, a shotgun, a revolver, and a cooler had gone missing from the scene of the crime.

The sheriff’s office said on Facebook : “The suspect is cooperating with our detectives and has led us to the evidence we have identified in prior press releases. The investigation into the homicide continues. It is believed the suspect acted alone and there is no longer a threat to the community.  Our thoughts and prayers continue for the family of Dustin Kjersem. We hope, by some small measure, our efforts can bring them a bit of peace during this horrific time. Our entire community mourns with you. Further details and charges are forthcoming, but it is important for this community to know they are safe to resume their outdoor activities. The sheriff’s office will have a further comment regarding this investigation until charges are filed.”

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