University of Pittsburgh Student Missing in Dominican Republic, Drowning Suspected

Sudiksha Konanki, a missing University of Pittsburgh student on spring break in the Dominican Republic, is believed to have drowned. Last seen on security footage at Riu Republica Resort, police are investigating potential scenarios including foul play. Authorities continue to gather information from friends and family, while conditions at the resort remain dire, prompting heightened travel advisories for Americans.

A University of Pittsburgh student, Sudiksha Konanki, 20, is missing in the Dominican Republic and is presumed to have drowned. She was on spring break with five peers when she disappeared after last being seen on the beach near the Riu Republica Resort at approximately 4:50 AM on Thursday. Witnesses reported she was walking with a small group the night before her disappearance.

According to Dominican officials, Konanki and one other student remained on the beach, where they later went swimming. However, the exact circumstances of her disappearance are still unclear, as officials have indicated that the investigation considers both accident and potential foul play. “There is no evidence to support that conclusion at this time,” said Thomas Julia, spokesman for the Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office, suggesting that more inquiry is needed.

Authorities have been gathering information from Konanki’s friends to direct their maritime search effectively. Surveillance footage confirmed she was last seen wearing a bikini and accessories, aligning with the description from her friends. Konanki, a pre-med student expected to graduate in 2026, attended Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology prior to university.

The investigation has engaged the US State Department and the Indian embassy due to her dual citizenship status. Konanki is a permanent US resident of Indian descent, putting both entities in the lead of initiatives to locate her. The university is actively supporting the family and has urged anyone with information to contact local authorities.

The condition at the Riu Republica Resort is critical, facing shortages of electricity, running water, and food options. Guests have had to adapt to these struggles, with reports of tourists scavenging for meals and having to charge their devices under unusual conditions. Additionally, the State Department recently updated a travel advisory concerning the Dominican Republic, raising awareness about crime risks, including violent incidents that may affect travelers, urging more caution when visiting the area.

Sudiksha Konanki’s presumed drowning during spring break highlights the risks associated with travel, especially in foreign locations. As investigations continue into her disappearance, efforts are being made by local and international authorities to ensure her safe return. Additionally, the ongoing conditions at the Riu Republica Resort raise significant concerns for tourists about safety and accommodations while visiting the Dominican Republic.

Original Source: www.dailymail.co.uk