Authorities continue to search for Sudiksha Konanki, a University of Pittsburgh student who went missing during her spring break trip to Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. The 20-year-old was last seen during the early hours of March 6, 2025, around 4:15 a.m. local time, at the Riu República resort, where she was vacationing with five other female students.
(Konanki, originally from India, was traveling with fellow students when her disappearance was reported. She was described as 5 feet 3 inches tall, with black hair and brown eyes. At the time of her vanishing, she was wearing a brown bikini, large round earrings, and multiple bracelets.)
After complaints from her friends when she didn't return to their hotel room, the local authorities were alerted by the U.S. Embassy on March 7. Initial investigations revealed her last recorded movements on surveillances; at around 5:55 a.m., video evidence showed her walking on the beach accompanied by another young man, who later departed the scene around 9:55 a.m. without her.
"My daughter is very nice. She’s ambitious. She wanted to pursue a career in medicine," said Subbarayudu Konanki, her father, expressing his concerns. He fears for his daughter’s safety and hopes the authorities broaden their investigation beyond the ocean to include other possible scenarios, such as kidnapping or human trafficking. "I don’t think she would be able to survive for more than three days in the water, and I think something else might’ve happened to her," he added.
The Dominican National Police announced they are interviewing the young man last seen with her, alongside others from the group, to clarify events leading to her disappearance. "Right now, it runs the gamut from something accidental to foul play. Nothing’s been ruled out," explained a spokesperson from the Loudoun County Sheriff's Office.
Search efforts have intensified, involving various local agencies like the Dominican National Police and the Dominican Navy. Drones, helicopters, and even divers have been deployed to comb through the coastal areas of Bávaro, according to the Dominican Civil Defense. "We are working closely with local authorities, the Police, and Navy," said Riu Hotels & Resorts, indicating their cooperation during search efforts.
The university has expressed support for Konanki's family during this difficult time, assuring they are working with authorities. "Anyone with information should reach out to the Loudoun County Sheriff's Office at 703-777-1021," they urged.
According to the U.S. State Department, there’s currently a Level 2 travel advisory for the Dominican Republic due to concerns about violent crimes, including armed robbery and sexual assault. This advisory has raised alarm bells for those planning future trips to the region.
Concerns over the safety of tourists have heightened, especially post-pandemic, as many travelers eagerly return to popular holiday destinations like the Dominican Republic. Reports show mixed feelings among the public and authorities, as tourists flock to enjoy spring vacations, but incidents of violent crimes prompt focus on necessary precautions.
Meanwhile, the effort to locate Sudiksha continues, with family members present on the island assisting authorities. "We hope for the best and pray for her safe return," her father said poignantly. The search is not yet over, and the family continues to hold out hope.
Sudiksha Konanki is remembered not only as a bright student but also as someone who had hopes and dreams of becoming a doctor. Her ambition played out with friends during what was meant to be a fun getaway, now overshadowed by uncertainty and despair.
People have gathered on social media to share their hopes and prayers for her safe return, as the investigation continues. Updates from the Dominican authorities and families have maintained the call for anyone with knowledge pertaining to her whereabouts to step forward.
This tragic story reverberates through both the academic and local communities, touching the hearts of those who recognize the need for safety measures not only for tourists but for everyone. Sudiksha's case serves as a reminder of both the joys of travel and the risks associated with venturing away from home.