Sydney Kidnapping & Murder: Lawyer Claims Client Not ‘Mastermind’

Sydney Grandfather’s Death: Two Men Charged, One Described as ‘No Mastermind’

Two men have been charged with the murder of 85-year-old Chris Baghsarian, a Sydney widower who was allegedly kidnapped from his North Ryde home earlier this month. Gerard Anthony Andrews, 29, and Daniel Stevens, 24, appeared in Blacktown Local Court on Thursday, February 26, 2026, where they were both refused bail and their cases adjourned until April 17.

The charges follow the discovery of human remains near a golf course in Sydney’s northwest fringe, which were later confirmed to be those of Baghsarian. Police allege the pair, along with a third unidentified individual, abducted Baghsarian on February 13, 2026, in what appears to be a case of mistaken identity.

Andrews’ lawyer, Paul McGirr, told reporters outside court that his client was not the orchestrator of the alleged crime. “from what I can gather, my client was no mastermind in respect to his involvement in this particular matter, but we’ll wait for a brief and we’ll take it from there,” McGirr said. He acknowledged the sensitivity of the case for Baghsarian’s family, adding, “It’s not lost on me the sensitive nature of this particular matter for the victim’s family.”

Police allege that Stevens and Andrews believed they were kidnapping a different individual, Karo Stepanyan, when they instead took Baghsarian from his home on Northcott Street after smashing a window. Authorities believe the intended target was connected to Sydney businessman Dimitri Stepanyan.

Detectives have suggested the abduction was motivated by a potential AU$50 million (approximately US$33 million) ransom demand. Acting Superintendent Andrew Marks described the situation as “somebody’s worst nightmare” and emphasized the need to hold those responsible accountable.

During the court appearance, Stevens requested antiviral medication for shingles while in custody, stating he hadn’t showered in 24 hours. Andrews appeared via video link wearing the same white Gucci T-shirt he was seen in during arrest footage released by police.

The investigation has revealed details of the alleged planning leading up to the kidnapping. Sources indicate that Andrews and Stevens purchased black hoodies and other clothing at a K-Mart in Stanhope Gardens on February 11, 2026, allegedly as part of preparations for the abduction. Police also allege the pair used Pig Latin in an attempt to cover their tracks.

Authorities have seized vehicles, electronics, and clothing during searches conducted at Kenthurst, Castle Hill, and Lake Macquarie. A search for the third alleged offender is ongoing, with police believing others may have been involved in the incident.

Baghsarian’s family, who described the ordeal as a “nightmare,” have expressed relief at the arrests but have requested privacy as they grieve. They remembered Baghsarian as a gentle man “who would never hurt a fly.”

The investigation continues, with police appealing for any further information that may assist in identifying the third suspect and understanding the full extent of the alleged criminal enterprise.