A fire that tore through a Goa nightclub was fuelled by wooden structures and furniture, trapping many victims as the venue had just two exit points, police sources revealed on Sunday. Officials clarified there was no explosion the flames spread quickly because of flammable materials used in the club’s interiors.
The blaze claimed at least 25 lives, with investigators confirming that most fatalities resulted from suffocation in the underground kitchen area. Of the 25 bodies recovered, 23 showed no signs of burns, suggesting victims died from oxygen deprivation, while only two bodies were severely charred, officials said.
A police source reported that post-mortem examinations on 17 bodies have been completed, with six already released to families for last rites. A list of the deceased has been prepared to facilitate identification and handover procedures.
Police have arrested four individuals so far, including a gate manager identified as Thakur. An FIR has been filed against club owners Saurabh Luthra and Gaurav Luthra, and arrest warrants have been issued for them. A police team has been sent to Delhi to locate the owners, who are believed to be on the run.
Sources confirmed the club owner hails from Delhi, and Goa Police have launched search operations in the capital to apprehend him.
Read More: 25 dead in midnight fire at Goa club
Authorities announced that officials who approved the club’s trade licence and permissions will face suspension and a police investigation, as scrutiny intensifies over safety breaches and regulatory failures.
In a compassionate gesture, the Goa government arranged a special aircraft to airlift the bodies of three victims from Jharkhand to Ranchi, ensuring their swift return to grieving families.