Elderly Grandfather Abducted in Terrifying Case of Mistaken Identity
Chilling CCTV footage has captured the terrifying moment an 85-year-old grandfather was violently abducted from his own home in what authorities believe was a shocking case of mistaken identity. The incident, which unfolded in the early hours of Friday morning, has left the local community in New South Wales, Australia, reeling with horror and concern.
Graphic Footage Reveals Brutal Kidnapping
Grainy surveillance video aired on Australian news network Nine shows two men arriving at the North Ryde residence in a dark four-wheel-drive vehicle. One of the individuals was wearing a high-visibility jacket, adding an eerie contrast to the pre-dawn darkness. The footage depicts the intruders forcing their way into the home before dragging the elderly victim, Chris Baghsarian, towards the waiting car as he pleaded desperately for help.
The vehicle then sped away into the darkness, leaving behind a scene of chaos and fear. Police later discovered an abandoned dark Toyota SUV that they believe is directly linked to the abduction. The car was found more than eight miles away from the crime scene, completely burned out, suggesting a deliberate attempt to destroy evidence.
Police Confirm Mistaken Identity with Absolute Certainty
New South Wales Police Detective Acting Superintendent Andrew Marks stated that investigators are "a million per cent confident" the kidnappers had taken the wrong man. He emphasised that Mr Baghsarian and his family have no connections whatsoever to organised crime or any illicit activities that might explain such a violent targeting.
"He was taken from his bedroom in the family home and driven to a location we simply don't know," Superintendent Marks revealed. "We believe he is still alive, but we are deeply concerned for his welfare." The absence of any ransom demand has further puzzled authorities, who have no clear motive for why the kidnappers continue to hold the elderly man hostage.
Desperate Pleas for the Victim's Safe Return
Authorities have issued a heartfelt appeal to the kidnappers, urging them to act with humanity and release Mr Baghsarian immediately. "Take him to a hospital or somewhere safe," Superintendent Marks implored. "We'll do the rest." The victim's health is a major concern, as he requires daily medication, raising serious fears about his condition as the desperate search intensifies.
New South Wales Premier Chris Minns described the family as "distraught" and called on those responsible for the savage abduction to do the right thing. "This is a man over 80 years old," Mr Minns said. "Please return him to his family." The community has rallied together, with anyone possessing information urged to contact Crime Stoppers in Australia on 1800 333 000.
The investigation remains ongoing, with police combing through evidence and following leads in hopes of locating Mr Baghsarian and bringing his captors to justice. This harrowing incident serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of elderly individuals and the devastating impact of violent crime on innocent families.
