Parents of U.S. student who vanished in DR want her declared dead

The parents of Sudiksha Konanki, a 20-year-old University of Pittsburgh student, have requested that she be declared legally dead after her disappearance in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. Nearly two weeks after she vanished on March 6, local authorities believe she likely drowned while at a beach near her hotel. Sudiksha had traveled to the Caribbean for spring break with five friends, and her last known companion, Joshua Riibe, has been detained for questioning but is not a suspect. According to Riibe, they were drinking and swimming together when they were caught in a current, and he lost sight of her shortly afterward. The Konankis stated in their letter to Dominican police that this step would allow them to begin the grieving process and find closure.

They emphasized that no evidence of foul play has emerged, and Riibe is cooperating with authorities. Sudiksha, originally from India, became a U. S. permanent resident and her case has garnered significant media attention. The tragic circumstances highlight the dangers faced by travelers and the emotional toll on families during such distressing situations.