Missing College Student in Dominican Republic May Have Drowned

Sudiksha Konanki, a 20-year-old University of Pittsburgh student, is missing after a beach walk in the Dominican Republic and is believed to have drowned. Search efforts are underway while her friends and local authorities seek public assistance in finding her.

A 20-year-old college student, Sudiksha Konanki, went missing during a spring break trip to the Dominican Republic, and it is suspected she may have drowned. The University of Pittsburgh junior was last seen on March 6, walking along the beach at the Riu Republica Resort in Punta Cana after spending time with friends who returned to the hotel earlier in the night.

Reports indicate that Konanki and one companion continued their beach outing and may have encountered a strong wave while swimming. Local surveillance footage captured her just before her disappearance at approximately 4:15 a.m. on March 6. Konanki, a resident of Loudoun County, Virginia, was in the Dominican Republic with a group of female students from Pittsburgh.

The search for Konanki commenced early on March 8, with authorities utilizing drones and helicopters to conduct aerial searches of the area. The Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office has coordinated with various law enforcement agencies and the Embassy of India, which is leading the ground operations.

A missing person’s poster circulated by a friend of the family has urged the public to assist with information or involvement in the search. The poster includes a plea, emphasizing the importance of spreading awareness for her return. Details about her appearance noted she is 5 foot 3 inches tall, with black hair and brown eyes, last seen in a brown bikini and accessories.

Authorities have interviewed her companions from that night, although no charges have been filed against them. The Dominican Republic National Police and relevant U.S. agencies have not provided further statements regarding the situation when contacted for updates.

In summary, Sudiksha Konanki, a 20-year-old college student, is presumed to have drowned following her disappearance during a beach walk in the Dominican Republic. The search efforts are ongoing, supported by local and international authorities, as friends and family hope to locate her safely. Community involvement and awareness remain critical in the search process.

Original Source: people.com