A Montana jury has found Daren Christopher Abbey guilty of murdering another man at a campsite near Big Sky last year, initially reported as a bear attack. Abbey was convicted after brutally attacking Dustin Kjersem with an axe, block of wood, and screwdriver at Kjersem’s campsite in October 2024, according to prosecutors. An autopsy revealed Kjersem sustained “multiple chop wounds,” including to his skull.
The victim’s girlfriend initially reported the body as a possible bear attack, but wildlife agents found no sign of a bear in the area, leading to a homicide investigation. Abbey was linked to the crime scene by DNA on a beer can inside the tent. He admitted to taking Kjersem’s guns, cooler, cellphones, and other belongings, concealing evidence.
Abbey claimed the killing was in self-defense after Kjersem threatened him, but authorities noted inconsistencies in his story, pointing to multiple chop wounds in the attack. Springer said Abbey had planned to camp at the site but found Kjersem already there with a wall tent, beds, and stove. In a confession to detectives, Abbey stated Dustin welcomed him to the campsite and offered him a beer.
Abbey faces up to life in prison on the homicide conviction, along with two counts of tampering with evidence, which carry up to 10 years each. Defense attorney Sarah Kottke expressed disappointment in the verdict but respected the jury’s decision, stating they argued self-defense, claiming Daren was scared for his life when a gun was pointed at him by the decedent. A decision on whether to appeal will be made after sentencing, she said.
The case is scheduled for sentencing Dec. 30.
