A Montana man charged with killing another man in a tent near Big Sky pleaded not guilty to deliberate homicide and evidence tampering, claiming he acted in self-defense. The case has raised questions due to inconsistencies in his story and his criminal background.
Initial Death Reported as Bear Attack
The death of 35-year-old Dustin Kjersem was initially reported by his girlfriend as a bear attack after she discovered his body on October 12 in a tent south of Bozeman. However, investigators quickly determined foul play, uncovering evidence that pointed to human involvement.
Defendant’s Account of the Incident
The accused, 41-year-old Daren Christopher Abbey, appeared in court Tuesday, asserting his innocence and claiming that Kjersem threatened him and his dog with a gun. Abbey told investigators he defended himself by attacking Kjersem with a block of wood, a screwdriver, and an axe.
Court records reveal discrepancies in Abbey’s story, including his conflicting accounts of where he found the axe and his admission that he washed the weapons in a creek. Abbey also acknowledged taking a cooler of beer, firearms, two cellphones, and items from Kjersem’s truck after the altercation.
Evidence Linking Abbey to the Crime
Investigators linked Abbey to the crime scene through DNA found on beer cans and other items in the tent. DNA tests ruled out Abbey’s twin brother, who was in prison at the time.
Abbey’s failure to initially report the incident, his tampering with evidence, and his return to the crime scene to retrieve personal belongings have raised further suspicions among investigators.
Allegations of White Supremacist Ties
Gallatin County inmate records identify Abbey as a self-described white supremacist, with tattoos including a swastika and iron cross. This background has drawn additional scrutiny to the case, though it is unclear if it will play a role in the legal proceedings.
Legal Proceedings and Bail
Abbey pleaded not guilty to deliberate homicide and evidence tampering during his appearance before District Court Judge Peter Ohman. Prosecutors argue that his story does not align with the evidence, while Abbey maintains that he acted in self-defense.
The judge set Abbey’s bail at $1.5 million. If convicted, he faces a significant prison sentence.
