Butchered dad identified as suspect in camping trip murder.

Three weeks after Dustin Kjersem, a Montana father and avid outdoorsman, was discovered dead on a camping trip, police have identified a suspect in his "heinous" murder.

On Saturday, Oct. 12, a 35-year-old man was discovered dead in his tent about two and a half miles up Moose Creek Road, near Big Sky. His friend, who found him and called 911, initially thought he had been attacked by a bear. However, authorities soon determined that the death was a result of a homicide.

The suspect, who has not been named by authorities, is currently in custody on unrelated charges, according to Gallatin County Sheriff Dan Springer.

"Springer stated that the suspect acted alone and there is no longer a threat to the community. He added that further details and charges will be released, but the community can resume their outdoor activities with peace of mind."

The suspect has assisted detectives and led authorities to previously identified evidence, according to Springer's statement.

The police mentioned in a previous press release that some evidence found at the crime scene may have been taken, including an Estwing camp ax with a 26-inch handle, a Remington Model 11-87 12-gauge shotgun with a wood stock, a Ruger Blackhawk .44 Magnum revolver with a blued 4 5/8-inch barrel and wood grips, and an orange YETI Tundra 45 cooler.

Kjersem's death was caused by "several deep cuts," according to police.

The Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office Detectives were thanked by Springer for their relentless pursuit of justice on the case. They worked tirelessly for nearly three weeks with minimal rest, time with their families, and time for themselves.

"The Gallatin County Sheriff's Office and all law enforcement officers are dedicated to ensuring the safety of the community and finding Dustin Kjersem's killer. This commitment to service sets them apart and makes them special. The community should be proud of the men and women who have chosen a life of service to keep them, their families, and their friends safe."

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Springer thanked various agencies for their assistance in the case, including 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.

Jillian Price, Kjersem's sister, previously pleaded for the public's help in finding the person responsible for her brother's murder in an emotional interview with Planet Chronicle Digital.

"Please, everyone, stop and look to help me find out who did this," Price implored. "I need any assistance anyone can provide."

Kjersem has a daughter and a stepson. When asked about her brother, she said, "I hope others remember his caring nature, even though they never heard his laugh."

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On Oct. 10 in the afternoon, Kjersem left his Ford F-150 for camping and was last seen. Despite plans to meet up with a friend the next day, he never showed up. His body was eventually found by his friend, authorities said.

"Our community mourns with you and our thoughts and prayers continue for the family of Dustin Kjersem," Springer said. "We hope, by some small measure, our efforts can bring them a bit of peace during this horrific time."

The Gallatin County Sheriff's Office will not provide any additional information on the investigation into Kjersem's homicide until charges are filed.