Suspect Identified in Death of Man Initially Thought to Be Killed by Bear

A suspect is in custody in connection with the death of a man initially thought to be from Montana was killed by a bear in his tent.

On Wednesday, October 30, the Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office confirmed a statement. release The body of 35-year-old Dustin Kjersem was found Saturday, October 12, in Mont. They said they “identified a suspect” after he was found in a tent about 2.8 miles up Moose Creek Road north of Big Sky.

“The suspect is currently in custody on unrelated charges. The suspect is cooperating with our detectives,” Sheriff Dan Springer said in the statement, adding that the suspect led them to “evidence” in the case.

Without naming the person, Springer said, “The investigation into this murder continues. It is believed that the suspect acted alone and is no longer a threat to society.”

“More details and charges to come, but it is important for this community to know that it is safe for them to continue their outdoor activities. The Sheriff’s Office will have no further comment regarding this investigation until charges are filed,” the statement said.

Springer also thanked sheriff’s office detectives “for their relentless pursuit of justice in this case.”

“For nearly three weeks, they worked day and night with limited sleep, limited time with their families, and limited time for themselves. They prioritized the safety of this community and the need to find Dustin Kjersem’s killer above all else,” the sheriff said. he said. .

“It’s that kind of dedication that makes the Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office and all law enforcement special. This community should be proud of the men and women who choose a life of service to keep you, your families, and your friends safe,” insisted Springer and others who helped work on the case. He thanked many institutions.

Kjersem, of Belgrade, Mont., was last seen on Thursday, Oct. 10, and her body was found two days later at around 10:07 a.m. local time.

Springer concluded in his final statement: “Our thoughts and prayers continue for Dustin Kjersem’s family. We hope our efforts bring them some peace during this terrible time. Our entire community mourns with you.”

On Thursday, October 24, the sheriff’s office confirmed they were searching for multiple items “believed to have been removed from the scene of the crime.” releaseincluding a camping axe, a shotgun, a pistol and a cooler.

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The person who found Kjersem’s body at first thought it was the result of a bear attack. But the sheriff’s office previously said in a statement on Oct. 15 that the state’s Fish, Wildlife and Parks official found no evidence of bear activity in the area. release.

“This prompted investigators to treat the case as a homicide. Evidence obtained through autopsy also indicated that this was a homicide,” the sheriff’s office said at the time. he said.

“This incident was a violent attack and detectives are working hard to find clues and track him down,” they previously added.

The Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office did not immediately respond when contacted by PEOPLE.