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Investigation Underway in Montana Homicide

In a tragic turn of events, authorities in Montana are actively investigating the murder of 35-year-old Dustin Kjersem, who was found dead in his campsite two weeks ago. Initially, a friend who discovered the body suspected a bear attack, but subsequent investigation revealed the death resulted from a violent act of murder.

The Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office has announced that investigators are searching for key items believed to have been taken from the crime scene, including a large blue and silver Estwing camp axe, a Remington 11-87 12-gauge shotgun, and a Ruger Blackhawk .44 Mag revolver. Additionally, they are hoping to locate an orange Tundra 45 cooler made by YETI.

According to the sheriff’s office, anyone who comes across these items should refrain from touching them and should report their findings immediately. The office has shared visual references for the weapons and cooler in their outreach efforts.

The sheriff’s office emphasized their gratitude for the community’s support and the leads that have emerged during the investigation, which they are diligently pursuing.

Kjersem was found at a makeshift campsite along Moose Creek Road. The initial report to 911 suggested a bear attack, but wildlife officials found no evidence to support that claim. An autopsy later revealed Kjersem had suffered multiple chop wounds, indicating he had been brutally attacked.

Gallatin County Sheriff Dan Springer has stated that investigators are working tirelessly to identify Kjersem’s killer, expressing the importance of community assistance in solving the case. He highlighted the challenges posed by the remote location of the crime scene, where limitations in cellphone service have complicated the investigation’s progress.

Concerns have been raised regarding public safety, with Springer commenting that insufficient information exists to determine if there is an ongoing threat to the community. Kjersem’s family continues to seek answers, with his sister, Jillian Price, expressing frustration over the lack of action surrounding her brother’s murder. She has called for an intensified search for Kjersem’s assailant, stating, “I don’t understand why the world’s just not stopping and looking for who did this to him.”

A GoFundMe campaign established to support Kjersem’s children has successfully raised over $24,000, reflecting the community’s solidarity and support during this difficult time.

Source
www.cbsnews.com