GOA: The owner of Birch by Romeo Lane, Saurabh Luthra, remains absconding following a devastating fire at his North Goa nightclub that claimed 25 lives and left several others injured.

Until last year, Luthra had aimed to launch 50 restaurants across India. His LinkedIn profile lists him as “Chairman at Romeo Lane, Birch and Mama’s Buoi.”

Activist Tahir Noronha described Luthra as “like a ghost,” saying he rarely stays in Goa and often avoids legal proceedings, sending representatives in his place.

Survivors and staff also described him as aloof, with one kitchen worker noting that Luthra visited the club only once a month and rarely interacted with employees.

Management expresses sorrow

In a 1st statement released after the tragedy, the management of Birch by Romeo Lane expressed profound grief and said it was “deeply shaken” by the loss of lives. “In this hour of irreparable sorrow and overwhelming distress, we stand in unwavering solidarity with the families of the deceased as well as those injured,” the statement said.

The management added that it would provide “every possible form of assistance, support and cooperation” to the bereaved and affected individuals during this period of “immense anguish and adversity.”

"The management expresses profound grief and is deeply shaken by the tragic loss of lives resulting from the unfortunate incident at Birch.

In this hour of irreparable sorrow and overwhelming distress, the management stands in unwavering solidarity with the families of the deceased as well as those injured, and conveys its heartfelt condolences with utmost sincerity.

The management further affirms that it shall extend every possible form of assistance, support and cooperation to the bereaved and affected individuals, as they navigate through this period of immense anguish and adversity."

Manager held

Earlier today, Goa police detained another manager associated with the nightclub, identified as Bharat, who reportedly handled the daily operations of Birch by Romeo Lane. Authorities are investigating the full sequence of events that led to the blaze.

Fire outbreak and aftermath

At the time of the fire, between 100 and 200 people were on the dance floor. Some patrons attempted to escape by running to the kitchen area, where they became trapped along with staff members.

Investigations continue

Police have launched efforts to trace Luthra brothers as investigations into the incident continue and a look-out circular has been issued.

The focus remains on accountability, safety compliance, and providing assistance to victims and their families during this period of immense distress