The family of 20-year-old Sudiksha Konanki, an Indian national and U.S. permanent resident, has formally requested Dominican authorities to declare her deceased, as reported by U.S. media.
Sudiksha was last seen on March 6 at the Riu Republic Resort in Punta Cana. Despite extensive searches, no trace of her has been found. The Dominican National Police confirmed receiving a letter from her family requesting the declaration of death.
Authorities have confiscated the passport of Joshua Steven Riibe, the last known person with Sudiksha, though he is not a suspect and has not been charged. The U.S. and Dominican investigators continue to monitor the case.
Sudiksha, a University of Pittsburgh student, had traveled with five friends. Surveillance footage captured her and her group at the hotel bar before heading to the beach at 4:15 AM. At 5 AM, six people returned—Sudiksha was missing.
During questioning, Riibe described strong waves and Sudiksha tiring while swimming. Despite attempts to assist her, she disappeared into the water. Authorities have ruled out foul play, classifying it as a missing persons case rather than a criminal matter.
Her parents, acknowledging the investigation’s findings, have agreed to comply with legal formalities to proceed with the declaration of death.
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