Ask Onix
Fourth suspect charged in elderly man's death
Australian police have charged a 19-year-old with murder and aggravated kidnapping in the case of Chris Baghsarian, an 85-year-old Sydney man abducted from his home in February. Authorities believe the retired widower was mistaken for someone else linked to organized crime.
Timeline of the abduction
Baghsarian was taken from his North Ryde residence at approximately 5:00 AM on February 13. Security footage captured several individuals forcing the elderly man into an SUV. His body was discovered two weeks later near a golf course in northwest Sydney.
Police investigation and arrests
Two men, aged 29 and 24, were charged with murder and kidnapping the day after Baghsarian's remains were found. A third suspect, 23, was arrested last month and accused of multiple offenses, including murder, kidnapping, and firearms and drug-related crimes. Police described him as a "major player" in the case.
On Tuesday, a fourth individual-a 19-year-old-was taken into custody and charged with murder and detaining for ransom causing bodily harm. He was denied bail and is scheduled to appear in court Wednesday. Authorities have indicated that up to nine people may have been involved, suggesting further arrests are possible.
Family speaks out
Baghsarian's relatives described him as a "deeply loved, gentle" man with no criminal ties. In a statement following his abduction, they emphasized his kindness, saying he "would never hurt a fly."
During the search for Baghsarian, police made repeated public appeals for his safe return, noting his health conditions required daily medication. Reports later emerged that images and videos of the injured grandfather, still in his pajamas, had circulated within Sydney's criminal underworld.
Possible motive
Local media and police sources suggest the kidnapping may have targeted a nearby family with alleged organized crime connections. Baghsarian, a retired widower, was reportedly mistaken for one of their members.
