BREAKING: Two men have been charged in the chilling kidnapping and murder of 85-year-old Chris Baghsarian after police discovered his remains in bushland. The suspects, a 29-year-old from Kenthurst and a 24-year-old from Castle Hill, were apprehended by heavily armed police just hours ago and will face Blacktown Local Court on November 2, 2023.
Authorities report that Baghsarian was abducted from his North Ryde home approximately 11 days ago in what is believed to be a case of mistaken identity. The investigation took a grim turn when human remains were identified as his near a golf club on Sydney’s northwest outskirts earlier this week.
Detective Acting Superintendent Andrew Marks stated, “It’s somebody’s worst nightmare, right? These people need to be held to account for that, and that’s why we are bringing these people before the courts.” The police believe that Baghsarian was killed at a makeshift hideout in Dural before his body was discarded just hours later.
In a significant development, police executed search warrants at the suspects’ residences and a third location at Lake Macquarie, seizing vehicles, electronics, and clothing pertinent to the investigation. Authorities are actively searching for a third alleged offender and suspect that more individuals may have been involved in this heinous crime.
The intended target of the abduction was reportedly a relative of Dimitri Stepanyan, a businessman linked to organized crime, who resides on the same street as Baghsarian. Detective Marks indicated that the kidnapping was motivated by a ransom demand, with reports suggesting a staggering figure of $50 million.
Baghsarian’s family has described the ordeal as a “nightmare” but expressed relief that the alleged perpetrators have been captured. They have requested privacy as they navigate the grief of losing a beloved father, brother, uncle, and grandfather, who “would never hurt a fly.”
This shocking case has gripped the local community and raised urgent questions about safety and crime in the area. As investigations continue, authorities urge anyone with information related to the case to come forward. Stay tuned for updates as this story develops.
