Full Breakdown
Fourth Man Charged in Chris Baghsarian Kidnapping and Murder Case
4/23/2026, 2:55:29 AM
Overview of the Incident
Chris Baghsarian, an 85-year-old widower and grandfather, was kidnapped from his home in North Ryde, Sydney, on February 13, 2026, in what authorities describe as a case of mistaken identity. Following an extensive 11-day search, his remains were discovered near a golf club in Pitt Town on February 24. The investigation has led to multiple arrests, with a fourth man charged recently.
Arrests and Charges
On April 21, 2026, a 19-year-old man was arrested at Mount Druitt Police Station and charged with murder and taking or detaining in company with intent to ransom, occasioning actual bodily harm. He was denied bail and is scheduled to appear in Mount Druitt Local Court. This arrest follows the charges against three other individuals: Delkin Donnelly, 23, who was arrested in late March, and two others, Daniel Stevens, 24, and Gerard Andrews, 29, who were charged earlier in the investigation. All three remain before the courts.
Background of the Case
The police investigation, led by Strike Force Chabot, revealed that Baghsarian was not the intended target of the kidnapping. Instead, the actual target was a relative of Sydney businessman Dimitri Stepanyan, who lived nearby. Authorities believe that up to nine individuals may have been involved in the kidnapping and subsequent murder, with a house in Dural serving as a central location for the alleged crime.
Official Statements & Responses
Detective Acting Superintendent Andrew Marks indicated that the investigation is ongoing and that multiple individuals played significant roles in the crime. He noted, “There was a group of people who played significant roles in the entire offence,” highlighting the complexity of the case.
Criticism & Opposition
While the investigation continues, some community members have expressed concerns regarding the safety and security measures in place for elderly residents in the area. The case has sparked discussions about the need for increased vigilance and protective measures for vulnerable populations.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
There are discrepancies regarding the number of individuals involved in the kidnapping, with some reports suggesting that as many as nine people may have participated, while others focus on the four currently charged. Additionally, the exact motivations behind the mistaken identity remain unclear, leading to speculation about the broader implications of gang-related activities in the region.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Baghsarian’s family described the ordeal as a nightmare, remembering him as a devoted father, brother, uncle and grandfather “who would never hurt a fly”.” — Family Statement
- “There was some crossover from the [North Ryde] house to Dural, and the disposal of remains.” — Detective Acting Superintendent Andrew Marks
This case continues to unfold as authorities work to bring all responsible parties to justice, and the community seeks answers and reassurance in the wake of this tragic event.
