Australian police say they have located human remains during the search for 85-year-old Chris Baghsarian, who was abducted from his home nearly two weeks ago in what investigators believe was a case of mistaken identity. The development was reported by the BBC.
Baghsarian, a widower, was taken from his North Ryde home just before dawn on February 13. CCTV footage showed masked men forcing him into an SUV, and authorities have said they believe the kidnappers may have intended to target someone else.
Police suspect the elderly man was taken in error, with local reports indicating the intended target may have been a relative linked to an organized crime family. Officers have described the abduction as deeply distressing for the family.
Grim evidence uncovered during search
On Tuesday, investigators found human remains near a golf course on the outskirts of Sydney. The discovery followed the earlier recovery of a burnt-out vehicle that police have linked to the suspected kidnappers, as ICE agents video investigation also circulated in separate reporting.
Authorities said they found a blood-stained carpet in the boot of the vehicle, which was connected to an abandoned property where detectives believe Baghsarian was held. The evidence forms part of an ongoing investigation.
Police also confirmed that a video circulated within Sydney’s criminal underworld in the days after the kidnapping, allegedly showing the elderly man seriously injured. Officers had repeatedly appealed for his safe return, noting he had health issues and required daily medication.
Detective Acting Superintendent Andrew Marks said shortly after the abduction that the offenders “were intending to take somebody, but have taken the wrong person.” He said the family’s priority was the safe return of their father and grandfather.
New South Wales Premier Chris Minns urged those responsible to release Baghsarian at a public location such as a shopping centre, emergency department, or nursing home. Police have said cases of mistaken identity appear to be increasing in Sydney’s criminal underworld, particularly as organized crime groups subcontract violent acts, while Discord age verification partner has also drawn attention to broader safety concerns.
The BBC report also referenced a separate case last year in which a 23-year-old plumber was shot and killed in Condell Park in what police believe was another mistaken identity attack. Investigators have described the trend as deeply concerning as inquiries continue into Baghsarian’s disappearance.
Published: Feb 24, 2026 05:45 am