NSW Police have officially confirmed that human remains discovered near a golf course in Sydney's north-west are those of Chris Baghsarian, an 85-year-old grandfather who was murdered. This development concludes a 12-day intensive search for Baghsarian, who was abducted from his North Ryde home in what authorities describe as a tragic case of mistaken identity.
Forensic Testing Provides Closure
Detective Chief Inspector Andrew Marks announced that forensic testing has verified the remains located at Pitt Town on Tuesday. "We can now confirm the remains located yesterday were in fact Mr Baghsarian — we have done this through forensic testing," he stated. The confirmation has brought a sense of closure to the investigation but has left the family devastated by their loss.
Family's Grief Amid Arrests
Marks noted that while the family welcomes the news of arrests, they remain deeply affected. "While the family of Mr Baghsarian welcome the news of the arrests, they're still devastated by the loss of their father and grandfather," he explained. Police have arrested two men, aged 29 and 24, during coordinated raids at Kenthurst and Castle Hill, linking them to the kidnapping and murder.
Arrests and Investigation Details
The breakthrough in the case occurred as police executed three search warrants, resulting in the arrests. "A 29-year-old from Kenthurst and a 24-year-old from Castle Hill were arrested and are currently at Riverstone Police Station. They are still being processed and we expect they will be charged with the murder and kidnapping of Mr Baghsarian," Marks detailed. Police allege the pair were involved in a joint criminal enterprise to kidnap Baghsarian, who was held hostage at a property where he ultimately died.
Mistaken Identity Revealed
Authorities have stressed that Baghsarian was not the intended target of the kidnapping, highlighting the random and horrific nature of the crime. "I wish to stress that Mr Baghsarian was not the intended target of the kidnapping," Marks emphasized, underscoring the senseless violence that led to this outcome.
Evidence Seized and Ongoing Efforts
During the raids, detectives seized electronic devices, clothing, and other items from the Kenthurst and Castle Hill homes, along with two additional devices from a Lake Macquarie address. Marks expressed gratitude for the investigators' diligent work and vowed to pursue all individuals involved. "I thank investigators for their work and vow to pursue every person involved in what I describe as a horrible, horrible matter," he said, reaffirming the commitment to justice in this distressing case.
