Suspect identified in brutal killing of Montana RV near Big Sky

According to the Gallatin County Sheriff's Office, a suspect has been identified in the murder of Dustin Kjersem, the Belgrade man who was found brutally killed on October 12, 2024 in the Moose Creek area near Big Sky.

Sheriff Dan Springer said in a news release that the suspect was in custody on unrelated charges and was cooperating. Springer says the suspect led investigators to previously identified evidence.

According to Sheriff Springer, it is believed the suspect acted alone and is no longer a threat to the community. The investigation is ongoing, but the sheriff emphasized that the community can safely resume outdoor activities.

WATCH PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Sister of Dustin Kjersem asks community for help in finding his killer

Sister of a man murdered near Big Sky is asking the community for help finding his killer

The news release states that the sheriff's office will have no further comment on the investigation until charges are filed. The suspect's name has not been released at this time.

“I would like to thank the Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office detectives for their tireless pursuit of justice in this case. They worked day and night for nearly three weeks, with limited sleep, limited time with their families and limited time for themselves,” Sheriff Springer said in the release. “You have made the safety of this community and the need to find Dustin Kjersem’s killer a top priority. It is this type of commitment that makes the Gallatin County Sheriff's Office and all law enforcement officers special. This community should be proud of the men and women who have chosen a life of service to protect you, your families and your friends.”

Sheriff Springer also thanked the following agencies for their work on the case: the Montana Department of Criminal Investigation (DCI), the Montana State Crime Lab, the Montana Department of Corrections, Probation and Parole, the Medical Examiner's Office, the Montana Highway Patrol, the Missouri River Drug Task Force, the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office, Butte-Silver Bow Law Enforcement, Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks, the U.S. Forest Service and Gallatin County Search and Rescue.

“Our thoughts and prayers continue to go out to Dustin Kjersem’s family. We hope our efforts can bring them some peace during this terrible time. Our entire community mourns with you,” said Sheriff Springer.
Kjersem was found dead in his tent on Moose Creek Road north of Big Sky on Saturday, October 12th. An autopsy reportedly revealed that he had suffered “multiple lacerations” that led to his death.

Kjersem's sister, Jillian Price, said at a news conference after his killing that Dustin was “a hard-working, skilled craftsman” and “a loving, helpful and adoring father who in no way deserved this.”