Intense Bushland Search Underway for Missing Grandfather Chris Baghsarian

Authorities are combing through dense bushland in Glenorie, located 44 kilometers from the heart of the city, as the likelihood of finding him alive diminishes.

Baghsarian’s disappearance dates back to February 13 when he was forcibly taken from his North Ryde residence in what investigators are calling a tragic case of mistaken identity.

Yesterday, a police helicopter was one of the resources utilized in the extensive search effort at Glenorie.

This morning, officers resumed their efforts, planning to deploy both the canine unit and helicopter in the upcoming hours to pursue Baghsarian and those responsible for his abduction.

Detectives revealed that a 2022 Toyota Corolla, discovered incinerated in Westmead last Tuesday night, has been traced to a property in Dural. They suspect this location may have served as a hideout for those involved following the kidnapping.

Police believe the car, bearing Victorian registration 1UZ2BU, was torched and dumped just before midnight last Tuesday.

Detectives believe that same car, which was allegedly stolen from Victoria before Baghsarian went missing, had travelled from the abandoned property at Dural. 

Police raided the building, which they described as a “stronghold” for his abductors last Friday and seized evidence. It included disturbing images of Baghsarian and his alleged kidnappers.

His family have pleaded for the elderly grandfather, who depends on daily medication, to be released by his captors and police have set up Strike Force Chobat.

Senior police said last Friday hopes of finding Baghsarian alive were “fading”.