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Nightclub owners leave India following fatal blaze
Police in Goa confirmed that the owners of a nightclub where 25 people died in a fire on Sunday have fled the country. Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra, brothers who ran the venue, boarded a flight to Phuket, Thailand, shortly after the incident, authorities said.
Investigation points to fireworks as cause
Investigators believe the fire at Birch By Romeo Lane, a popular nightclub in Goa's bustling nightlife district, was sparked by fireworks set off inside the venue. The blaze erupted in the early hours of Sunday morning while a Bollywood DJ performed to a packed crowd.
Most of the victims were staff members, including migrant workers from Nepal. Four were tourists visiting from Delhi. Five people remain hospitalized.
Police seek Interpol assistance
Goa police raided the Luthra brothers' home in Delhi but found they had already left the country. Authorities have requested Interpol's help to locate and arrest them.
"Their departure indicates an intent to evade the investigation," Goa police stated.
Venue's design hampered rescue efforts
Witnesses described chaotic scenes as patrons tried to escape. The nightclub's main section is situated on an island in a lake, accessible only by narrow walkways, which delayed firefighters' response. Part of the venue was completely destroyed.
Initial reports suggested a gas canister explosion caused the fire, but police now believe pyrotechnics ignited wooden ceiling beams.
Victims include families and migrant workers
Among the deceased were two brothers engaged to be married next year and four members of a Delhi family. All victims' bodies have been returned to their families, police confirmed.
Four individuals, including the venue's manager, were arrested in the immediate aftermath of the fire.
Owner's statement omits location
Saurabh Luthra, identified on social media as the club's chairman, posted a statement expressing grief but did not disclose his whereabouts.
"In this hour of irreparable sorrow, the management stands in solidarity with the families of the deceased and injured, offering heartfelt condolences and support," the statement read.
Gaurav Luthra has not made any public comments.
