Human remains uncovered at a golf course in Australia are strongly suspected to belong to a missing 85-year-old grandfather who was kidnapped in what authorities describe as a shocking case of mistaken identity. The discovery has sent shockwaves through the community, with police condemning the recklessness of the perpetrators.
Tragic Discovery in Pitt Town
Robbery and serious crime squad detectives located the remains near a golf course in Pitt Town, approximately 45 minutes from the victim's home in North Ryde, near Sydney. The body, yet to be formally identified due to its condition, is believed to be that of Chris Baghsarian, an elderly widower who lived alone.
Detective Acting Superintendent Andrew Marks addressed reporters, stating, "We suspect those remains to be Mr. Baghsarian." He expressed collective outrage, saying, "I suppose I speak for not only the police, but the public in general, that we're outraged at this happening, and the recklessness of these people." Marks emphasized the innocence of the victim, noting that Baghsarian and his family have no links to organized crime, a point police have repeatedly affirmed.
Timeline of Events and Investigation
The kidnapping occurred on February 13, when up to three men snatched Baghsarian from his home. In the days following, investigators pieced together a tragic timeline. On February 14, a Toyota Corolla was reported set on fire in Glenorie, a rural suburb of Sydney, prompting a large-scale search. This vehicle was later forensically linked to Baghsarian.
Further evidence emerged when the burning car was spotted in Pitt Town around the same time, leading police to the crime scene where the remains were found. Additional items matching evidence from an abandoned property, where detectives believe Baghsarian was held hostage and tortured, were discovered with the body. "Putting that together is why we believe it is Mr. Baghsarian," Marks explained.
Disturbing Details and Underworld Connections
Prior to the discovery, distressing videos and images of a severely injured Baghsarian circulated in Sydney's underworld, highlighting the unspeakable horrors he endured. Marks confirmed viewing these materials, describing them as "distressing to see an 85-year-old man in that condition." He noted Baghsarian's need for daily medication, underscoring the urgency of the situation.
Investigators from Strike Force Chobat believe the kidnappers were actually targeting a relative of Dimitri Stepanyan, a 37-year-old Sydney businessman with convictions for armed robbery and ties to the Alameddine crime family through his clothing brand, Proper Streetwear. Messages allegedly between the kidnappers and Stepanyan demanded a $50-million ransom, further complicating the case.
Community Outrage and Family Anguish
NSW Premier Chris Minns labeled the discovery an "incredibly tragic development," asserting, "This kind of brutality has no place in our community. Police will not stop until they capture those responsible and bring them before the courts. The full weight of the law must come down on these people."
Baghsarian's family released a heartfelt statement through NSW Police, describing him as "the kindest person we know—someone who would never hurt a fly." They expressed their struggle to comprehend the nightmare, stating, "Chris' kidnapping feels surreal, and we are struggling to make sense of the fact that he has been taken, and that our family has been caught up in something that has nothing to do with us."
The investigation continues as authorities work to formally identify the remains and apprehend those responsible for this brutal crime.
