Search Intensifies for Missing University of Pittsburgh Student in Dominican Republic

University of Pittsburgh student Sudiksha Konanki went missing during a spring break trip in the Dominican Republic. Her clothes were found at the beach where she was last seen, and police do not suspect foul play. Investigative reports suggest drowning may be the cause of her disappearance.
New details have emerged regarding the search for Sudiksha Konanki, a missing University of Pittsburgh student, in the Dominican Republic. She traveled to Punta Cana with friends for spring break and was reported missing after she went for a swim early Thursday morning. Her clothes were discovered on a beach, believed to be near where she was last seen, with no indications of foul play detected by authorities.
According to police sources, Konanki, a 20-year-old legal permanent U.S. resident and Indian citizen, vanished while her group visited a resort. After spending time at a nightclub on Wednesday night, she and her companions went to the beach around 4:00 a.m. Thursday. Security footage confirms that her friends returned to their hotel about 5:55 a.m., while a man remained with Konanki on the beach.
The unidentified man, as reported by authorities, stated that they went swimming and were caught in a wave. He later mentioned that he returned to the beach, feeling unwell, and fell asleep on a beach bed. When he woke up, Konanki was missing. Security footage indicates that he returned to his hotel room at 9:55 a.m. but he is not considered a suspect in her disappearance, as several officials believe she likely drowned.
The Dominican Republic Public Ministry has confirmed that Konanki was last seen on security camera footage around 4:15 a.m. on Thursday. The U.S. embassy contacted local officials on Friday regarding her disappearance. Those who were with Konanki at the time have been interviewed and have not faced any charges.
The search for Sudiksha Konanki highlights the tragic circumstances faced by her and her friends during their spring break. While her clothes were found and witnesses interviewed, authorities believe she may have drowned. As investigation continues, the friends present during the incident remain uncharged, providing a somber reminder of the risks associated with swimming after late-night activities.
Original Source: abcnews.go.com