Fears Mount for Kidnapped Sydney Grandfather as Police Link Burned Car to Case
Sydney, Australia – Australian authorities are intensifying their search for 85-year-old Chris Baghsarian, who was abducted from his North Ryde home on February 13, with growing concerns for his well-being as time passes. Police now believe a vehicle found burned out in Westmead earlier this week is connected to the kidnapping.
The case, which police describe as a “bungled kidnapping” resulting from mistaken identity, has gripped the nation. Baghsarian was allegedly taken from his home in the early hours of the morning and forced into a dark-colored SUV.
Investigators have determined the 2022 Toyota Corolla, discovered torched on Monday night, was stolen from a neighboring state before the abduction and was used to transport Baghsarian from a property in Dural. Images released by police show the abandoned home they believe is linked to the crime.
“They took Mr Baghsarian whilst he was at home, in his bedroom of his family home, and they took him and bundled him into a car and took him away to a location that we do not know,” stated Detective Acting Superintendent Andrew Marks. “Police consider that Mr Baghsarian was not the intended target… You have the wrong person.”
Police say Baghsarian was beaten and forced to film a hostage video, which has been circulated within New South Wales’ criminal underworld. The video was reportedly directed by a local gangland figure. A police helicopter was seen hovering over a property in Glenorie on Sunday, believed to be where the video was taken.
The search is complicated by the fact that Baghsarian relies on daily medication, leading authorities to fear for his health. “Our hope to find him alive is fading,” officials have indicated.
Strike Force Chobat has been established to focus on finding Baghsarian, following the receipt of “distressing” videos. Police have appealed to the public for any information regarding the kidnapping or the identity of the perpetrators. Anyone with information is urged to contact CrimeStoppers.
The investigation suggests the kidnappers were targeting another individual with connections to the criminal underworld and mistakenly abducted Baghsarian instead.
Family members have made desperate pleas for his safe return. The incident underscores the reach of organized crime and the potential for tragic errors with devastating consequences.
