Deklin James Donnelly, 23, has been charged with the alleged mistaken identity kidnapping and murder of Sydney grandfather Chris Baghsarian. He was arrested at his Seven Hills home on Wednesday morning by heavily armed NSW Police officers.
Donnelly faces 10 charges including murder and special aggravated kidnapping, as well as firearm and drug offences. Police allege he facilitated and recruited others to help kidnap and detain Mr Baghsarian, and arranged for disposal of his body.
Detective Chief Inspector Andrew Marks described Donnelly as a 'major player' in the operation, alleging he was present at the North Ryde address and conveyed Mr Baghsarian to a stronghold in Dural.
Mr Baghsarian, 85, was kidnapped from his North Ryde home on February 13, 2025, in what police believe was a case of mistaken identity. His remains were found 11 days later near a golf club in Pitt Town.
Two other men, Daniel Stevens, 24, and Gerard Andrews, 29, have already been charged in connection with the alleged kidnapping and murder. Donnelly appears to be Facebook friends with Stevens.
Donnelly was refused bail and is due to appear in Blacktown Local Court on Thursday. A 23-year-old woman arrested at the same property was charged with a domestic violence offence but is not believed to be involved in the murder.
