Police have confirmed the tragic identification of human remains found recently as belonging to 85-year-old Chris Baghsarian, who was kidnapped from his North Ryde home in Sydney. This confirmation came on Wednesday, February 25, when officers from the New South Wales (NSW) Police Force released details surrounding the ongoing investigation into his disappearance and subsequent death.
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Baghsarian was taken from his residence in the early hours of February 13 in what police describe as a case of mistaken identity. Initial inquiries suggested that he was not the intended target of the kidnapping. Detectives working on the case stated that Baghsarian’s abduction was a tragic error, leading to a police investigation that has since uncovered critical evidence.
On Tuesday, February 24, police located remains near a golf club in Pitt Town, located northwest of Sydney. Following extensive investigations, detectives arrested two men in connection with the alleged crime. The arrests took place in the morning of February 25, at locations in Kenthurst and Castle Hill, where the men were reportedly apprehended at their parents’ residences.
The two individuals arrested—reported by the Sydney Morning Herald to be 29-year-old Gerard Andrews and 24-year-old Daniel Stevens—were taken to Riverstone Police Station for questioning. While the police have not disclosed the identities of the men in their official communications, it has been confirmed that they are facing serious allegations pertaining to the kidnapping and death of Baghsarian.
Detective Acting Superintendent Andrew Marks addressed the media, confirming that the remains indeed belonged to Baghsarian. He mentioned that the suspects allegedly participated in a “joint criminal enterprise” aimed at kidnapping Baghsarian, and they suspect that the victim was held captive prior to his tragic demise. Marks emphasised that investigators are pursuing additional suspects connected to the case, indicating that more than three people may have been involved.
According to police reports, Baghsarian is believed to have died at a property in Dural before his remains were discarded near the Pitt Town golf club. The news of his death has left his family shaken, with Marks stating that the family was “devastated” by the events. He highlighted the broader implications of such a crime, underscoring the need for accountability as violence and abductions have no place in society.
Investigators are meticulously examining various leads as part of their probe into the circumstances surrounding the kidnapping. Reports surfaced about tyre tracks located near where the remains were found, raising inquiries about a suspicious vehicle—a grey Toyota Corolla—that had previously been reported stolen. This vehicle, which was found burnt in Wilberforce, displayed cloned license plates and is being scrutinised for its potential connection to the tragic incident.
Moreover, disturbing footage reportedly circling within Sydney’s underworld appears to show Baghsarian injured and wearing the same clothes he had when he was kidnapped, further complicating the investigation. Detectives are exploring the possibility that Baghsarian was mistakenly abducted while the actual targets were linked to Dimitri Stepanyan, a convicted armed robber.
The family of Chris Baghsarian has publically shared their anguish amid this horrific ordeal. They referred to him as a devoted father, grandfather, and a kind-hearted man, expressing their disbelief that their family could become embroiled in such a nightmarish situation that had nothing to do with them. They conveyed that the emotional toll of the kidnapping has been overwhelming and surreal.
As the investigation continues, community members in Sydney and beyond are left grappling with the chilling nature of the crime. The events surrounding Chris Baghsarian have raised significant concerns regarding safety and the prevalence of mistaken identity in violent criminal acts. Police assure the public that they are committed to holding all responsible parties accountable and hope that such an event will not repeat itself in the future.
As further details emerge, the dedicated work of the NSW Police will remain under scrutiny, as they take necessary steps to bring closure to the family and justice for the victim.