The family of 20-year-old University of Pittsburgh student Sudiksha Konanki, who disappeared on March 6 during a spring break trip to Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, has formally requested that local authorities declare her legally deceased. This request comes after extensive search efforts have failed to locate her, leading authorities to believe she may have drowned.
Konanki was last seen in the early hours of March 6, leaving the Riu República Hotel with a group of friends, including 22-year-old Joshua Riibe from Iowa. Surveillance footage captured them heading toward the beach around 4:15 a.m. According to Riibe’s account to the police, they went swimming despite red-flag warnings indicating dangerous surf conditions. He reported that a large wave struck them, and after losing sight of Konanki, he returned to shore and fell asleep on the beach.
Following Konanki’s disappearance, an extensive search operation was launched, involving local authorities, the FBI, and Interpol. Despite these efforts, no trace of her has been found. Authorities have stated that there is no evidence of foul play, and the investigation suggests that she likely drowned.
In a letter to the Dominican National Police, Konanki’s parents expressed their profound grief and the need for closure. They wrote, “Initiating this process will allow our family to begin the grieving process and address matters related to her absence.” They acknowledged that while no declaration can truly ease their sorrow, this step would help them honor her memory.
Riibe, identified as the last person to see Konanki, has cooperated fully with the investigation. Authorities have clarified that he is not considered a suspect, and no charges have been filed against him. His passport was temporarily confiscated during the investigation, but his legal team has been working to facilitate his return to the United States.
The Riu República Hotel, where Konanki and her friends were staying, experienced a power outage on the night of her disappearance, leading guests to gather outside. The hotel has stated that the outage was unrelated to her disappearance and that all safety protocols were in place.
Konanki, originally from Chantilly, Virginia, was a pre-med student known for her academic dedication and vibrant personality. Her disappearance has deeply affected both her university community and her hometown. The University of Pittsburgh has offered support to her family and is planning a memorial service to honor her life.
As the family awaits the official declaration, they have requested privacy to grieve and begin the process of healing. They have expressed gratitude for the support received from friends, community members, and authorities during this challenging time.
Sources:
- New York Post
- The Sun
- Reuters
- People
- El País
- CBS News
- Associated Press
- Fox News
- ABC News
- Fox News
- NBC Chicago
- Associated Press
- Yahoo News
- WJLA
- Fox News
