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Missing University of Pittsburgh Student Sudiksha Konanki: A Desperate Search
Sudiksha Konanki, a 20-year-old University of Pittsburgh student, vanished from a Punta Cana, Dominican Republic resort during spring break, sparking an international search effort. Last seen smiling in a photograph wearing a distinctive multicolored bikini, Konanki disappeared around 4:50 a.m. on March 6th, 2025, after reportedly walking along the beach near the Riu Republica Resort. This article details the ongoing search and the circumstances surrounding her disappearance.
The Disappearance
Konanki, an Indian national residing in Chantilly, Virginia, was vacationing with five friends from the University of Pittsburgh. Witnesses reported seeing her on the beach, wearing a distinctive brown bikini, a metal anklet, large earrings, and several bracelets. While her friends returned to the hotel, Konanki remained on the beach with another individual. Security footage shows the individual leaving the beach around 9:55 a.m. without Konanki. Authorities are interviewing this individual as part of their investigation.
Extensive Search and Investigation
The Dominican Republic’s Defensa Civil, along with the National Police, Navy, and Tourism Police, launched an extensive search, employing drones and helicopters. The Loudoun County Sheriff's Office in Virginia, the University of Pittsburgh, the Indian Embassy, and US State Department are collaborating with Dominican authorities. The search includes both land and sea operations, focusing on the coastal area of Bávaro. Konanki's father has urged authorities to explore all possibilities, including kidnapping or human trafficking, beyond the initial focus on a potential drowning.
Sudiksha Konanki: A Bright Future Interrupted
Konanki is described as a bright and ambitious student, expected to graduate from the University of Pittsburgh in 2026. She previously attended the prestigious Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology. Her father describes her as a “very nice girl… ambitious. She wanted to pursue a career in medicine.” The uncertainty surrounding her disappearance has devastated her family and friends.
Concerns and Ongoing Efforts
The disappearance has raised concerns about safety for tourists in the Dominican Republic. The US State Department has issued a Level 2 travel advisory for the country, warning of violent crime. The ongoing investigation is exploring various avenues, and authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward. The University of Pittsburgh continues to offer full support to Konanki’s family and the investigation.
Call to Action
Anyone with information regarding Sudiksha Konanki's whereabouts is urged to contact the Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office immediately. The international community remains hopeful for her safe return. This is a developing story, and updates will be provided as they become available.
