An American man associated with white supremacists has been convicted of a brutal murder initially mistaken for a bear attack.
Daren Christopher Abbey was found guilty of viciously killing Dustin Kjersem with an axe, a block of wood, and a screwdriver in October 2024 at Dustin’s campsite near Big Sky, Montana. The discovery of Dustin’s body by his girlfriend and a friend led to the investigation.
Initially reported as a possible bear attack, wildlife agents ruled out that possibility after finding no animal evidence in the area. Abbey was tied to the crime scene through DNA evidence on a beer can inside Dustin’s tent.
Abbey claimed he arrived at the campsite intending to stay the night and was met by Dustin, whom he did not know. He alleged self-defense, stating Dustin attacked him. However, prosecutors discredited his account due to inconsistencies and the severe injuries Dustin sustained.
After confessing to stealing Dustin’s belongings and tampering with evidence, Abbey faced a six-day trial where he was convicted of deliberate homicide and evidence tampering. The prosecution decided not to pursue the death penalty in this case.
Abbey’s defense attorney, Sarah Kottke, mentioned that Abbey will decide on appealing the conviction after his sentencing on December 30. Kottke acknowledged the challenges of presenting an affirmative defense in a remote location without witnesses.
Records revealed that Abbey had ties to a white supremacist group and bore tattoos of a swastika and an iron cross. Dustin, a self-employed contractor and father of two, was known for his construction skills and diverse trades knowledge.