Police Arrest ‘Major Player’ in Gang That Killed Grandfather Who Was Kidnapped by Mistake

In a significant development in a high-profile kidnapping case, New South Wales (NSW) police announced the arrest of a 23-year-old man linked to the alleged abduction and murder of 85-year-old Chris Baghsarian. Authorities confirmed the arrest took place on March 25, 2026, as part of a broader investigation into the events surrounding Baghsarian’s tragic death.

Baghsarian was reported missing after being taken from his home in North Ryde, Sydney, early on February 13, 2026. His remains were discovered more than ten days later, on February 24, located near a golf club in Pitt Town, which is northwest of Sydney. In a statement, NSW police indicated that Baghsarian had been mistakenly targeted, highlighting that he was not the intended victim of the kidnapping.

The suspect, identified as Deklin Donnelly, has now been charged with a range of serious offences, including murder, kidnapping with intent to ransom, and possessing unauthorised firearms and ammunition. In total, he faces multiple charges stemming from the incident, and police believe he played a crucial role in orchestrating the events leading to Baghsarian’s death.

Detective Acting Superintendent Andrew Marks addressed the media, stating that Donnelly was one of the primary offenders involved in coordinating the kidnapping. Additionally, Marks noted that Donnelly allegedly recruited others to assist in the abduction and was responsible for the disposal of Baghsarian’s remains. He described Donnelly as a “major player” in the criminal operation.

The police operation that culminated in Donnelly’s arrest also yielded significant findings. Firearms, ammunition, and a considerable quantity of prohibited drugs were confiscated during the execution of a search warrant in Seven Hills, where the arrest took place. Marks revealed that investigators suspect as many as nine individuals may have been connected to the kidnapping operation.

Prior to Donnelly’s arrest, two other men, Gerard Andrews, 29, and Daniel Stevens, 24, were taken into custody on February 25 in relation to Baghsarian’s kidnapping. These arrests followed an initial investigation that raised alarm bells regarding the nature of the crime. It was later revealed that Baghsarian had been confused for another individual, specifically the father of Dimitri Stepanyan, a convicted armed robber.

Reports suggest that Baghsarian’s abductors intended to target Stepanyan’s father, crossing paths with Baghsarian by chance, as both lived on the same street. Police believe that Baghsarian may have been harmed at a property in Dural before his body was discarded.

The police investigation has highlighted the disturbing dynamics of Sydney’s criminal underworld, where reports surfaced of footage showing a severely injured Baghsarian prior to his death. This alarming evidence underscores the brutality of the crime and has drawn considerable public attention.

Family members of Mr. Baghsarian have expressed their devastation in the wake of his death, with Marks remarking that the situation represents “somebody’s worst nightmare.” The police have reiterated their commitment to ensuring accountability for Baghsarian’s murder, emphasising their determination to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.

Donnelly, who was refused bail, is expected to face Blacktown Local Court for a hearing. As the investigation continues, police are appealing for information that could further assist in understanding the broader network involved in this tragic case.

The arrest of Donnelly marks a critical step in the ongoing pursuit of justice for Chris Baghsarian, whose life was cut short due to a horrific case of mistaken identity. The community remains on edge as authorities strive to bring all involved to justice and provide closure for the grieving family.