Search for Missing Pitt Student Sudiksha Konanki Includes Drowning and Abduction Theories
The search for Sudiksha Konanki, a missing University of Pittsburgh student in the Dominican Republic, considers both drowning and abduction as possibilities. Last seen Thursday at Hotel Riu Republica, her family expresses concern over the investigation’s focus solely on water-related scenarios. The Indian embassy and the University of Pittsburgh are involved in ongoing efforts to locate her.
The search for Sudiksha Konanki, a 20-year-old University of Pittsburgh student missing in the Dominican Republic since Thursday, continues as authorities explore multiple scenarios. Officials have speculated that she may have drowned, yet her family reports a lack of supporting evidence to this theory. Konanki was last seen at the Hotel Riu Republica in Punta Cana, walking on the beach before her disappearance around 5 a.m.
CCTV footage from the area shows six other individuals leaving the beach shortly after Konanki was last seen. Investigators have questioned a young man who reportedly remained on the beach with her prior to her disappearance. Konanki, originally from India and residing in Loudoun County, Virginia, was reportedly in Punta Cana for spring break before beginning her pre-med studies.
Her father, Subbarayudu Konanki, expressed concerns that authorities should consider other possibilities such as kidnapping or human trafficking. He stated, “I want them to also investigate other possibilities including whether this is a case of kidnapping or human trafficking.” He doubts that his daughter could survive for an extended period in the water, suggesting a potential foul play.
The investigation has been aided by local officials, with the Indian embassy collaborating with the U.S. State Department to facilitate the search. The University of Pittsburgh is in contact with Konanki’s family and law enforcement to provide necessary assistance. Hotel Riu Republica issued a statement expressing grave concern over her disappearance and confirmed cooperation with local authorities for a comprehensive search.
Konanki graduated from Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology in 2022 with a diploma in biological sciences, a school recognized as the top high school in America according to U.S. News & World Report for 2021 and 2022. Anyone with information about her whereabouts is encouraged to contact the Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office at 703-777-1021.
In summary, the search for Sudiksha Konanki continues to unfold under uncertain circumstances. Although authorities are considering the possibility of drowning, her family urges caution against this conclusion without solid evidence. The potential for foul play, including abduction, remains a significant concern, emphasizing the need for thorough investigation from both local and international authorities.
Original Source: triblive.com
