Authorities have confirmed that a St. Cloud State University student is a “person of interest” in the disappearance of Sudiksha Konanki, a 20-year-old University of Pittsburgh student who went missing during a spring break trip to the Dominican Republic on March 6. The Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office stated that the individual, a 22-year-old man from Iowa, is not considered a suspect.
- Authorities do not consider student a suspect.
- Sudiksha Konanki went missing in Dominican Republic.
- Search efforts include drones and helicopters.
- Family seeks to widen investigation scope.
- Last known person with her was interviewed.
- Belongings were left with friends during disappearance.
Sudiksha Konanki was last seen at a beach near her hotel during a power outage when she and other guests ventured outside. Her belongings, including her phone and wallet, were left with friends, which is unusual as she typically carries her phone with her. She traveled to the Dominican Republic with five other female students on March 3.
The Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office reported that they are not treating this as a criminal investigation despite naming the St. Cloud State student as a person of interest. Investigators have been utilizing drones, helicopters, and detection dogs to search waters off the island’s east coast for any signs of Konanki.
- Konanki’s family has urged authorities to expand their search efforts.
- The last known person with her reported that they were hit by a wave while on the beach.
- No clothing or personal items belonging to Konanki have been recovered so far.
The University of Pittsburgh has expressed its support for Konanki’s family and remains in contact with local authorities regarding the ongoing search efforts. As investigations continue, officials are reinterviewing individuals who were present before her disappearance to gather more information about what transpired.
The search for Sudiksha Konanki continues as authorities work diligently to uncover details surrounding her disappearance while ensuring clarity around those involved in the case.
