Search Intensifies for Missing US College Student in Dominican Republic
Sudiksha Konanki, a 20-year-old college student from Virginia, has been missing in the Dominican Republic since Thursday morning. The search efforts have intensified, engaging local and federal authorities. Friends and family maintain hope for her safe return as investigations proceed.
The search continues for Sudiksha Konanki, a 20-year-old college student from Chantilly, Virginia, who has been missing in the Dominican Republic for several days. A University of Pittsburgh junior, she traveled to the Caribbean destination with friends for spring break last week. Konanki was last spotted on surveillance footage at approximately 4:15 a.m. on Thursday, near the beach area of her hotel in Punta Cana.
As officials intensify their search utilizing canines, drones, helicopters, and boats, the community in Chantilly remains hopeful for her safe return. Family friend Shekar Pendem, who has known Konanki since childhood, expressed concern, stating, “It’s already four days and everybody is so worried.” Konanki was traveling with five other students, one of whom is also from Loudoun County, Virginia.
Loudoun County Sheriff Mike Chapman confirmed that authorities are actively interviewing friends who were with Konanki at the time of her disappearance. Officials are particularly focused on a young man seen on the beach during that time. Sheriff Chapman is coordinating efforts with federal partners, including the FBI. He emphasized, “We are going on the presumption that she’s still alive and want to make sure that we’re exhausting every possible lead that we can.”
U.S. Congressman Suhas Subramyam has also joined in urging the mobilization of all possible resources for the search. Describing the situation as “the worst nightmare,” he reflected on his own fears as a parent, stating, “It’s really heartbreaking.” Konanki’s parents have traveled to the Dominican Republic, hoping to assist in the search efforts and are requesting that search areas expand.
Further details regarding the circumstances of Konanki’s disappearance remain unclear, with local authorities not ruling out the possibility of foul play at this time.
The ongoing search for Sudiksha Konanki highlights the concern and urgency felt by her family and friends as well as local authorities. Utilizing various resources, including local police and federal agencies, the efforts to locate her continue. As the investigation unfolds, the hope for her safe return remains paramount among her community and loved ones.
Original Source: www.wistv.com
