Sanjay Karle, a 45-year-old who was found dead in an Audi in Panvel on November 19, had been out on bail for the past six months. According to the police, the deceased was a history-sheeter and was slapped with the stringent Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA). The investigation into his death has helped the police zero in on two persons. The police also stated that a monetary dispute could be the reason behind the alleged killing.

A constable attached to the Panvel Taluka police station received information around 6.40 pm on November 18 that a red Audi with the registration number MH-14-GA-9585 was parked on the side of the road in Taragaon, Panvel. The police rushed to the spot and found a person lying behind the driver's seat. More officers were called and the door was opened only to find that the man was dead.