Two men have been charged with the murder of an 85-year-old Sydney grandfather who police allege was mistakenly kidnapped. Gerard Anthony Andrews, 29, and Daniel Stevens, 24, appeared in court Thursday charged in connection with the death of Chris Baghsarian.
Mistaken Identity Alleged in Kidnapping and Murder
Andrews’ lawyer, Paul McGirr, a former police officer, said the alleged facts were disturbing and that his client was not the mastermind behind the incident. “It’s a horrific set of [alleged police] facts that I’ve read,” McGirr said. “I have a job to do and it’s very hard at this particular moment for me to do that job.”
Police allege Andrews and Stevens, along with a third unknown person, abducted Baghsarian from his home in North Ryde 11 days ago. The remains of Baghsarian were found in bushland in Sydney’s northwest fringe.
Andrews appeared via video link wearing the same white Gucci T-shirt he was seen wearing in arrest footage released by police. He confirmed he could see and hear the court when asked.
Stevens’ lawyer requested antiviral medication for shingles for his client while in custody. Stevens stated the shingles was no longer contagious, but he had not showered in 24 hours.
Authorities believe Baghsarian was killed at a makeshift stronghold in Dural before his body was dumped. Detective Acting Superintendent Andrew Marks said Wednesday, “It’s somebody’s worst nightmare, right? These people need to be held to account for that, and that’s why we are bringing these people before the courts.”
Vehicles, electronics and clothing relevant to the investigation were seized during searches at Kenthurst, Castle Hill and Lake Macquarie. Police are searching for a third alleged offender and believe more people may have been involved.
Investigators believe the intended target of the abduction was a relative of Sydney businessman Dimitri Stepanyan, who lived on the same street as Baghsarian. A ransom of AU$50 million (NZ$59.4 million) was reportedly demanded.
Baghsarian’s family, who described the ordeal as a “nightmare,” expressed relief at the arrests. They have requested privacy as they grieve the loss of their father, brother, uncle and grandfather “who would never hurt a fly.”
Both Andrews and Stevens were refused bail and are scheduled to return to court on April 17.
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