by Big Sky, Mont. – A Montana man has been convicted for a horrific 2024 campsite killing, in which authorities initially believed the victim had been mauled by a wild bear. Daren Christopher Abbey, 42, was found guilty of deliberate homicide for the death of Dustin Kjersem, a 35-year-old father, at a campsite near Big Sky, Montana, in October 2024.
Gallatin County Attorney Audrey Cromwell said in a statement:
“This verdict reflects our community’s expectation that violent acts resulting in the loss of life will be met with accountability.”
The Incident
Law enforcement reported that Abbey and Kjersem were strangers who met by chance at a remote campsite near Moose Creek Road. Abbey later admitted that Kjersem welcomed him into the site and shared a beer before the attack.
During the night of October 10, 2024, Abbey allegedly struck Kjersem with a block of wood, then an ax, and finally stabbed him with a screwdriver, authorities said.
Kjersem’s girlfriend, who had planned to meet him at the campsite, discovered his body on October 12. She described finding the victim mutilated with multiple chop wounds inside his tent and immediately called 911, initially believing the attack may have been caused by a bear.
DNA evidence from a beer can inside the tent ultimately led investigators to Abbey, who confessed after his arrest, according to Gallatin County Sheriff Dan Springer.
Abbey reportedly intended to camp at the location but found Kjersem already there, with a wall tent set up with multiple beds and a stove, the sheriff noted.
Trial and Defense
During the trial, Abbey’s defense claimed self-defense, arguing that Kjersem had allegedly pointed a gun at him. Defense attorney Kottke said:
“We asserted self defense in this matter, arguing that Daren was scared for his life when a gun was pointed at him by the decedent. If the jury would have believed there was self defense, they would have acquitted.”
However, the jury rejected the self-defense claim, citing overwhelming evidence against Abbey.
Additional Convictions and Sentencing
In addition to homicide, Abbey was convicted of two counts of tampering with evidence, each carrying an additional 10-year sentence. Authorities stated that Abbey may have removed multiple items from the campsite, including an ax, shotgun, revolver, and cooler, and returned later to retrieve other objects.
The motive for the killing remains unknown. Abbey faces life in prison for the homicide conviction, with sentencing scheduled for December 30, 2025.
Community Impact
The case shocked the Big Sky community and raised concerns about safety at remote campsites. Authorities continue to emphasize vigilance and the importance of reporting suspicious activity in isolated areas.
Do you think harsher regulations or monitoring are needed at remote campsites to prevent violent incidents? Share your thoughts in the comments below and join the discussion on public safety and outdoor recreation.
