(NewsNation) — A suspect has been identified in connection to the killing of a Montana man whose death was first reported as a bear attack earlier this month, according to the Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office.
Police said the suspect is currently in custody on unrelated charges and is cooperating with law enforcement.
As the investigation continues, authorities said they believe the suspect, who has yet to be named publicly, acted alone, and there is no further threat to the community.
Dustin Mitchell Kjersem, 35, of Belgrade, Montana, was found dead on Oct. 12 along Moose Creek Road, north of Big Sky.
Kjersem’s body was found inside a tent by a passerby who suggested a bear may have caused his death.
Sheriff Dan Springer said the autopsy revealed Kjersem had “multiple chop wounds,” including into his skull. It was determined that there were no signs of a bear being present, and the investigation changed into a homicide investigation.
“Evidence gathered through an autopsy further indicated that this was a homicide,” the release said. “This incident was a vicious attack, and detectives are working hard to develop and track down leads.“
Those with game or trail cameras in the area are asked to contact investigators at 406-582-2121 or detectives@gallatin.mt.gov.
