The man accused of killing Dustin Kjersem, a Montana father and outdoor enthusiast, has pleaded not guilty to deliberate homicide and tampering with evidence. Daren Christopher Abbey, 41, allegedly confessed to the brutal killing, claiming self-defense, but prosecutors and investigators point to inconsistencies in his story.

Kjersem was found dead in his tent near Big Sky, Montana, in October. The initial assumption of a bear attack was quickly dismissed when authorities determined the death was a homicide. Kjersem's girlfriend discovered his body after he failed to pick her up from work. She described him as a non-confrontational person.

Dustin Kjersem was found dead in his tent. (Gallatin County Sheriff's Office)

Abbey's account involves an encounter with Kjersem where he was offered a beer. He claims his dog left muddy paw prints on Kjersem's air mattress, leading to a confrontation where Kjersem allegedly threatened to shoot the dog and then kill Abbey. Abbey then alleges he acted in self-defense.

However, the absence of defensive wounds on Abbey contradicts his self-defense claim. Charging documents detail a vicious attack involving firewood, a screwdriver, and an axe. Abbey reportedly confessed to cleaning the weapons in a creek and taking Kjersem's cell phones, which he later wiped clean. He even returned to the crime scene the following day to retrieve his beanie and ensure there were no loose ends.

Daren Christopher Abbey (Montana Department of Corrections)

Big Sky Ski Resort area (Don & Melinda Crawford/Education Images/Universal Images Group)

Investigators also uncovered reports of Abbey making employees uncomfortable at Big Sky Resort and a nearby restaurant with discussions of his past imprisonment and white supremacist remarks.

Dustin Kjersem with his daughter (GoFundMe)

Kjersem's family, including his daughter, stepson, and three sisters, are mourning his loss. His sister, Jillian Price, expressed gratitude for the investigators' efforts and hopes people will remember her brother's caring nature.

Abbey has reserved a bond hearing for a later date. The Gallatin County Attorney's Office has confirmed they will not be seeking the death penalty.