A man with connections to white supremacist groups has been found guilty of murder for a brutal killing at a campsite in southwestern Montana, a case that was first reported as a potential bear attack.
From Suspected Animal Attack to Homicide Investigation
A jury convicted Daren Christopher Abbey on Monday for the deliberate homicide of Dustin Kjersem following a six-day trial. The crime occurred in October 2024 after the two men met at Kjersem's campsite near Big Sky, Montana.
According to prosecutors, Abbey attacked Kjersem with a block of wood, an axe, and a screwdriver. He later admitted to stealing Kjersem's guns, cooler, mobile phones, and other personal items before attempting to conceal evidence related to the murder.
The Evidence That Secured the Conviction
The investigation took a decisive turn when authorities linked Abbey to the murder scene through DNA found on a beer can inside the victim's tent. Abbey had claimed he acted in self-defence after being threatened by Kjersem, a story authorities said was riddled with inconsistencies.
Gallatin County Sheriff Dan Springer confirmed that Abbey arrived at the campsite intending to stay the night and was welcomed by Kjersem, who did not know him. The violent nature of the attack was highlighted by the presence of multiple chop wounds on the victim.
The victim's girlfriend and another friend made the grim discovery of Kjersem's body, initially reporting it as a possible bear attack. The case became a homicide investigation after wildlife agents found no evidence of a bear in the vicinity.
Sentencing and Lasting Impact
Court records show Abbey was found guilty of deliberate homicide and tampering with evidence. His sentencing is scheduled for 30 December before state District Judge Peter Ohman.
While deliberate homicide is a capital offence in Montana, Jack Veil of the Gallatin County Attorney's Office confirmed that prosecutors will not seek the death penalty in this case.
Official documents revealed Abbey's organisational affiliation with white supremacists, with State Department of Corrections records noting his tattoos included an iron cross with a swastika.
Dustin Kjersem, described by his sister as a self-employed contractor who built homes and learned various trades, is survived by his two children.
