The disappearance of 20-year-old Sudiksha Konanki during a spring break trip to Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, has garnered international attention. As the investigation continues, new details have emerged, shedding light on the circumstances surrounding her disappearance.
Timeline of Events
- March 3, 2025: Sudiksha Konanki, a University of Pittsburgh student, arrives in Punta Cana with five friends for spring break.
- March 6, 2025: Surveillance footage captures Konanki and her group heading to the beach near the Riu República Hotel around 4:15 a.m. She is last seen with 22-year-old Joshua Riibe.
- Later that morning: Konanki’s friends report her missing after she fails to return to the hotel.
Investigation Details
Authorities have conducted extensive searches involving local police, the FBI, and Interpol. Despite these efforts, Konanki remains missing. Riibe, the last person seen with her, reported that they were caught in a strong current while in the ocean. He claims to have lost sight of her after returning to shore.
Riibe was detained for questioning but was later released after a judge ruled his detention exceeded the legal limit without formal charges.
Family’s Response
Konanki’s parents have expressed their belief that their daughter drowned, based on the information provided by authorities. They have requested that she be declared legally dead to begin the grieving process.
Safety Concerns
The beach near the Riu República Hotel has been noted for its rough waters, with previous incidents of drownings reported. This has raised concerns about tourist safety in the area.
Ongoing Efforts
The case remains open, with authorities continuing to investigate and search for any leads. The international community watches closely as the search for the missing girl in Punta Cana continues.
Note: This article is based on information available as of June 1, 2025. For the most current updates, please refer to official news sources and authorities.
