BOZEMAN, Montana – A tragic incident occurred in a remote area of Montana when a 35-year-old man was discovered dead in his tent, initially thought to be the result of a bear attack.

Dustin Kjersem had set up camp northeast of Big Sky, Montana, on October 10, intending to meet a friend the following day. Unfortunately, the friend who arrived at the campsite on Saturday morning found Kjersem’s lifeless body, suspecting a possible bear mauling.

However, upon investigation, a state wildlife agent determined that there was no evidence of a bear having caused the injuries. Subsequent autopsy results revealed that Kjersem had died from “multiple chop wounds” inflicted by an unspecified weapon, according to Gallatin County Sheriff Dan Springer, who provided updates during a news conference on Wednesday.

Reports indicated that Kjersem sustained substantial injuries to both his skull and body. His campsite was located outside of established camping areas, and the exact time of death remains unclear.

Currently, no arrests have been made, and law enforcement officials are still trying to ascertain if there is an ongoing danger to the local community. Sheriff Springer emphasized the importance of vigilance while out in the wilderness, urging residents to be cautious.

The challenging nature of the investigation is exacerbated by the remote location where the attack took place, as there is no cell phone service in the vicinity, which limits communication records for investigators to examine.

Kjersem’s sister, Jillian Price, expressed her heartbreak, stating that he was a dedicated homebuilder in the Gallatin Valley, which encompasses Bozeman. She described him as a skilled tradesman and loving father.

“I’m asking our community for assistance in finding out who committed this act,” Price remarked. “There is someone out there among us capable of such terrible deeds.”

In light of these events, the sheriff’s office is reaching out to the public, urging anyone who has trail or game cameras in the Moose Creek area, where Kjersem’s remains were located, to come forward and assist with the investigation.