Family of Missing Pitt Student Requests Legal Death Declaration from Dominican Authorities
The family of Sudiksha Konanki, a missing University of Pittsburgh student, has requested Dominican authorities to declare her legally dead following their belief that she drowned. Konanki’s father has expressed sadness over the situation and confirmed that Joshua Riibe, the last person seen with her, is cooperating with the investigation. Authorities continue to support the Konanki family during this difficult time.
The family of Sudiksha Konanki, a 20-year-old University of Pittsburgh student who went missing during a spring break trip in Punta Cana, has formally requested Dominican authorities to declare her legally dead. They submitted this request nearly two weeks after her disappearance, following reports that authorities believe she drowned.
In a letter to Dominican officials, Konanki’s parents, Subbarayudu and Sreedevi, expressed that initiating the death declaration process would enable their family to commence the grieving process. They acknowledged the emotional toll of the situation and highlighted their need to address matters concerning her absence.
Sudiksha’s father shared with the New York Post details about their understanding of the incident, including insights from officials regarding the dangerous ocean conditions at the time. He conveyed the heavy grief his family feels, coming to terms with the belief that their daughter has drowned.
Konanki’s parents noted that Joshua Riibe, the Minnesota college student who was with her at the time of her disappearance, is assisting with the investigation. Riibe is believed to be the last known person to see Sudiksha alive and has requested permission to return to the United States without any charges against him.
Authorities believe that Sudiksha likely drowned in the early hours of March 6. Loudoun County Sheriff Michael Chapman expressed sympathy for the family and affirmed his office’s support for the Konanki family while they continue to review the evidence surrounding her disappearance and death.
On March 6, Sudiksha Konanki was last seen near the beach of their resort hotel, Riu República. Surveillance footage documented her walking towards the beach with a group of friends, including Riibe. He has stated that both he and Sudiksha were caught by a large wave, noting uncertainty about her safety after being swept into the ocean. Legal representatives for Riibe are seeking a habeas corpus hearing due to concerns over his detention.
The Konanki family is seeking to declare their daughter Sudiksha legally dead as they cope with the tragic circumstances of her disappearance. With authorities believing she drowned, they hope this declaration will allow them to begin the grieving process. Joshua Riibe, the last person seen with her, remains cooperative with investigators, and officials continue to provide emotional support to the grieving family while pursuing the investigation.
Original Source: www.kwxx.com
