Table of Contents
An 85-year-old Sydney grandfather who police believe was kidnapped in a case of mistaken identity is feared dead after human remains were discovered in bushland near Pitt Town Golf Course.
Detectives allege the man, identified as Chris Baghsarian, was taken from his North Ryde home in the early hours of 13 February 2026.
After more than 10 days of searching, officers located what are believed to be human remains near Pitt Town Bottoms Road, close to a golf course in Sydney’s north-west, on 24 February. Formal forensic identification is underway.
Mistaken identity
Police from the NSW Police Force believe Mr Baghsarian was not the intended target of the abduction.
Investigators have indicated the kidnapping may have been linked to a relative of a known criminal figure, suggesting the elderly man was taken in error. Despite early speculation about ransom demands, police say no ransom request was ever received by Mr Baghsarian’s family.
Family members have described the ordeal as a nightmare, saying the 85-year-old had no links to criminal activity and was a gentle, devoted grandfather.
Evidence trail leads to Pitt Town
The investigation, being led by the Robbery and Serious Crime Squad under Strike Force Chobat, followed several key developments.
Earlier in the search, detectives located a burnt-out stolen vehicle and blood-stained materials in Westmead. That discovery helped guide police to the Pitt Town area, where a crime scene was later established in bushland near the golf course.
Officers remain at the scene as forensic examinations continue.
Two men have been arrested and charged over the kidnapping and murder of 85‑year‑old Chris Baghsarian.
Arrests Made in Connection With Crime
Police from the NSW Police Force’s Robbery and Serious Crime Squad have charged Gerard Andrews (29) and Daniel Stevens (24) over the alleged abduction and killing of Mr Baghsarian, whose human remains were found in bushland near Pitt Town Golf Course on 24 February.
The two men were arrested in separate dawn raids in Kenthurst and Castle Hill and have been charged with murder and related offences including kidnapping with intent to ransom. Both did not apply for bail when they appeared before Blacktown Local Court this week; their cases have been adjourned with further court dates set later in 2026.
Investigators executed search warrants at properties in Kenthurst, Castle Hill and Lake Macquarie, seizing vehicles, electronics and clothing believed to be linked to the crime.
Police say the investigation is ongoing and have reiterated that those responsible will be pursued.
“This is a deeply distressing matter for the family and the community,” a police spokesperson said. “We are committed to identifying those responsible.”
Community shock
The discovery has shocked residents across the Hawkesbury, where Pitt Town’s quiet rural setting is better known for farmland and riverside homes than major crime investigations.
For many, the case underscores the devastating ripple effects of organised criminal activity particularly when innocent people are caught in the crossfire.
As forensic testing continues, the Baghsarian family is awaiting formal confirmation.
Police say they will provide further updates as the investigation progresses.
