DNA Evidence Links Suspect to Crime Scene, Sheriff’s Office Confirms
In a disturbing case out of Gallatin County, Montana, a 41-year-old man was charged with murder on Friday in the brutal killing of 35-year-old Dustin Kjersem at a remote campsite northeast of Big Sky. Authorities initially suspected a bear attack when they were alerted to Kjersem’s body by those who discovered it. However, the investigation quickly turned to homicide after no bear tracks or signs were found in the area.
Suspect Allegedly Attacked Victim With Screwdriver, Axe, and Wood
Gallatin County Sheriff Dan Springer provided details on the chilling events, stating that the suspect claimed he arrived at the campsite on October 10, intending to spend the night. Upon arrival, he encountered Kjersem, who did not know him but welcomed him and even offered him a beer. Despite the hospitality, the suspect allegedly turned violent, attacking Kjersem with a piece of wood, stabbing him in the neck with a screwdriver, and then striking him with an axe.
The sheriff did not disclose any motive behind the brutal attack, which left the small, remote camping area in shock.
Discovery of the Body Sparks Initial Bear Attack Suspicions
Kjersem’s girlfriend and a friend arrived at the campsite on October 12 and were horrified to discover his body. Believing it could be the result of a bear mauling, they immediately reported it to authorities. The homicide investigation began after wildlife officials found no evidence of bear activity in the vicinity.
DNA on Beer Can Leads to Suspect’s Arrest
During the investigation, a critical piece of evidence—a beer can left at the campsite—was collected and analyzed. The DNA on the can matched that of the suspect, leading law enforcement to track him down in Butte, Montana, where he was subsequently arrested this week. He is currently being held on a $1.5 million bail, Gallatin County Sheriff’s Department records indicate.
