Body Located in Search for Kidnapped Grandfather in Sydney's Northwest
Police have confirmed the discovery of human remains during the search for an elderly grandfather who was kidnapped in what authorities are describing as a case of mistaken identity. The remains were found near a golf club in Pitt Town, located in northwest Sydney, at approximately 8am on Tuesday.
Eleven Days After Disappearance
This grim discovery comes eleven days after the victim was forcibly taken from his North Ryde home on February 13. Police have stated they are "confidently" classifying this incident as a case of mistaken identity, indicating the grandfather was not the intended target of the kidnapping.
In the days following his abduction, police made urgent pleas to his captors for his release, expressing grave concerns about his health due to a lack of daily medication. Disturbingly, footage circulated through underworld circles online showing the victim tied up and beaten, heightening fears for his safety.
Key Evidence Uncovered
Investigators utilized the circulated footage to identify a derelict home in Dural, situated about 10 kilometers south of where the body was ultimately found. This location is believed to be where the grandfather was held after being kidnapped. Over the weekend, police conducted a thorough search of the Dural property, carrying out multiple bags of evidence, including a piece of carpet.
Additionally, two scorched cars discovered in nearby suburbs have been linked to the kidnapping, as search efforts increasingly focused on locating the victim. Detective Acting Superintendent Andrew Marks previously admitted that "hope was fading" for finding the grandfather alive, emphasizing the critical nature of his medical needs.
Family's Heartbreaking Statement
In a statement released on Tuesday, the family of the victim, identified as Chris Baghsarian, expressed their devastation, stating this crime should have had "nothing to do with us." They described living through a nightmare they never thought possible, struggling to comprehend the surreal nature of his kidnapping.
The family portrayed Baghsarian as a devoted father, brother, uncle, and grandfather, deeply loved and known for his gentle, kind nature. "He is someone who would never hurt a fly," they said, highlighting the tragic injustice of his involvement in this violent crime.
Authorities continue their investigation, with the discovery of the body marking a somber turn in this case of mistaken identity that has shocked the Sydney community.
