Sudiksha Konanki, a 20-year-old pre-med student at the University of Pittsburgh, went missing on March 6, 2025, during a spring break trip to Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. Described as bright, driven, and compassionate by friends and faculty, Konanki had a promising future ahead of her before tragedy struck during what was supposed to be a fun getaway.
According to authorities, Konanki was last seen around 4 a.m. walking along the beach near the Riu Republica resort with Joshua Riibe, a fellow student from Iowa. The two reportedly entered the ocean in the early morning hours, and Riibe later told investigators that they were hit by a strong wave. He claimed he lost consciousness on the shore, and when he awoke, Konanki was gone.
Despite intensive search efforts involving over 300 personnel, drones, divers, and canine units, no trace of her has been found. The FBI, Dominican authorities, and U.S. Homeland Security have all been involved in the ongoing investigation. Riibe was initially detained for questioning but was released and officially cleared of any involvement after a judge ruled his detention unconstitutional due to lack of evidence.
Her disappearance has drawn national attention and raised concerns about the safety of American tourists abroad, especially young students traveling during spring break. Back home in Virginia and at Pitt, vigils have been held in her honor, and students have rallied around her family to show support.
Though her family now believes she likely drowned, Dominican law requires a waiting period of four years before an official declaration of death can be made without a body. They continue to seek clarity and closure, holding on to the hope that more information will come to light.
As the investigation continues, Konanki’s loved ones are left grieving without answers. Her disappearance remains a heartbreaking reminder of how quickly life can change and how important it is to never take a moment for granted.