Search Continues for Missing University of Pittsburgh Student in Dominican Republic

Sudiksha Konanki, a 20-year-old University of Pittsburgh student, is missing in the Dominican Republic, with authorities exploring theories of drowning and possible abduction. She was last seen at the Hotel Riu Republica. Her father has urged for additional investigations beyond water searches. The University of Pittsburgh and local officials are actively involved in search efforts.

Recent developments have emerged regarding the search for Sudiksha Konanki, a 20-year-old University of Pittsburgh student who has been missing since Thursday in the Dominican Republic. Authorities are considering multiple scenarios concerning her disappearance, including the possibility of drowning and abduction, although definitive evidence supporting these theories is still lacking. Konanki was last seen at the Hotel Riu Republica in Punta Cana prior to her disappearance, and a social media update from Defensa Civil indicated that she was walking on the beach before she vanished.

Reports suggest that surveillance cameras captured six individuals departing the beach shortly after Konanki was last observed. Investigations have prompted questioning of a young man who allegedly remained behind with her during that time. Konanki hails from Loudoun County, Virginia, and is originally from India, having traveled to the Dominican Republic for spring break ahead of her pre-med studies at the University of Pittsburgh.

Her father, Subbarayudu Konanki, expressed concerns regarding the focus of the search efforts, urging authorities to thoroughly investigate the possibility of kidnapping or human trafficking. He stated, “We don’t think she would be able to survive for more than three days in the water and I think something else might’ve happened to her.” While Dominican officials have speculated that she may have drowned, local authorities in Virginia have not found evidence to substantiate such claims.

The Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office has confirmed that Konanki was among a group of six female students in Punta Cana, with local law enforcement supporting efforts alongside the Indian embassy in the Dominican Republic. The University of Pittsburgh has also affirmed its commitment to aiding her family and facilitating the search for Konanki. In a statement, the Hotel Riu Republica expressed its deep concern and ongoing cooperation with local authorities to locate the missing guest.

Those with information about Sudiksha Konanki’s whereabouts are encouraged to contact the Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office at 703-777-1021 for assistance and further details on the ongoing investigation.

The search for Sudiksha Konanki continues with authorities exploring various possibilities regarding her disappearance. While speculations of drowning persist, her family is advocating for a broader investigation that includes kidnapping concerns. Collaborative efforts between local law enforcement and the Indian embassy are underway, and the University of Pittsburgh remains actively involved in supporting the situation. Any relevant information can help further these efforts in obtaining clarity and resolution in this distressing case.

Original Source: triblive.com