Search for Missing Pitt Student Sudiksha Konanki Expands in Dominican Republic

Authorities continue investigating the disappearance of the 20-year-old, last seen on March 6, with theories ranging from accidental drowning to potential foul play.

Sudiksha Konanki, a 20-year-old University of Pittsburgh student, disappeared during a spring break trip to Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, on March 6.
Konanki was last seen on surveillance footage walking to the beach around 4:15 a.m. with a group that included a man identified as a person of interest, though no suspects have been named.
Dominican authorities, with assistance from U.S. agencies including the FBI and Coast Guard, have mobilized over 300 personnel, divers, drones, and helicopters in an expanded search effort along the coastline and nearby beaches.
Investigators have not ruled out foul play but are considering multiple possibilities, including accidental drowning; no evidence of violence has been found, but strong currents were reported in the area at the time.
Konanki’s family and friends have been actively involved in the search, while the Indian Embassy and U.S. authorities continue to provide support and resources.