Search Intensifies for Kidnapped Sydney Grandfather Chris Baghsarian

Investigators are intensifying their search for Chris Baghsarian, an 85-year-old man who was kidnapped from his home in North Ryde, a suburb of northwest Sydney, on February 13, 2024. As hope wanes for his safe return, authorities are focusing their efforts on the semi-rural area of Glenorie, where a vehicle linked to the case was spotted more than 40 hours after his abduction.

Details of the Kidnapping

Mr. Baghsarian was taken by three men who stormed his residence and forced him into an SUV. The alarming incident has captured public attention and raised concerns about his wellbeing. As days pass without a ransom demand or any confirmed sightings, the investigation has taken on a sense of urgency.

On February 14, a vehicle associated with the kidnapping was observed in Glenorie, prompting police to investigate the area further. Detective Chief Inspector Andrew Marks stated that CCTV footage and tips from the public led them to this location, but he refrained from disclosing further specifics. The police are also probing two suspicious vehicle fires that occurred on February 16 in Westmead, approximately 15 kilometers from the site of the kidnapping.

Forensic Evidence and Ongoing Investigations

According to investigators, “forensic links” have been established between one of the burned-out vehicles and Mr. Baghsarian. The car in question was identified as a stolen 2022 Toyota Corolla with Victorian registration “1UZ2BU”, and it bore fake Victorian number plates. Despite attempts to destroy evidence, remnants of the vehicle have led authorities to a derelict property in Dural, where police conducted searches on February 15 and February 16, suspecting it may have been used by the kidnappers as a stronghold.

Detective Chief Inspector Marks commented on the unusual nature of this case, stating, “This whole case has not been our normal kind of investigation in relation to kidnapping and a hostage.” He expressed growing concerns about Mr. Baghsarian’s health and survival as each day passes without word.

Authorities have publicly appealed to the kidnappers, urging them to return Mr. Baghsarian to safety. “He has been taken over 10 days ago and every day … the concerns grow,” Detective Marks lamented. He has also called on individuals with knowledge of the situation to contact police anonymously.

The family of Mr. Baghsarian has described their ordeal as a “nightmare,” expressing their anguish in a brief public statement. They emphasized the emotional toll this incident has taken on their lives and the uncertainty surrounding their loved one’s fate.

As the investigation continues, police remain hopeful that new leads will emerge that can bring Mr. Baghsarian home safely. The community is urged to remain vigilant and report any information that may assist in resolving this troubling case.