41-year-old Daren Christopher Abbey was apprehended for the deliberate homicide of 35-year-old Dustin Kjersem who was discovered dead in his tent near Big Sky. Initially, the attack was thought to be bear-related, according to the Huffington Post.
Dan Springer, the sheriff, stated that Kjersem arrived early on Oct. 10 to set up a camping trip with his girlfriend. Reports mentioned that he was supposed to pick her up the next day for their planned camping trip but never came.
On Oct. 12, Kjersem’s girlfriend arrived at the campsite with a friend and discovered him dead inside his tent, according to Sheriff Springer.
Initially, it was believed that Kjersem was attacked by a bear due to the brutality of the attack. However, no bear signs were found, and an autopsy confirmed Kjersem’s death was a homicide. DNA from a beer can directed officials to Abbey.
Abbey was apprehended in Butte on a different charge and reportedly confessed to killing Kjersem later. He had worked in the Big Sky area. Abbey met Kjersem while searching for a camping spot. Reports mentioned that the victim welcomed Abbey to his campsite with a beer.
During their encounter, Abbey hit Kjersem with wood,
“stabbed him in the neck with a screwdriver,”
and attacked him with an ax. He also took items from the campsite to hide evidence. The investigation may take months, and Abbey’s statements might not be fully valid, according to Springer.
#Clique, what are your thoughts?
