The parents of missing University of Pittsburgh student Sudiksha Konanki have requested Dominican authorities to declare her dead, nearly two weeks after she disappeared during a spring break trip in Punta Cana.

As the search for Sudiksha Konanki continues to yield no trace, her parents are seeking a declaration of death from Dominican authorities, allowing them to start their grieving process. Konanki, last seen on March 6 while swimming with Joshua Riibe—who has been cooperating with the investigation but is under scrutiny—was believed to have drowned, according to officials who have found no evidence of foul play. This tragic request highlights the emotional toll on the family and raises concerns over the handling of Riibe's detention, amidst accusations of irregularities in his treatment by authorities.

Sudiksha Konanki disappeared on March 6, 2025, while on a spring break trip in Punta Cana, sparking a widespread search effort that included the assistance of drones, helicopters, and various rescue resources. A formal request has been made by her family to Dominican police to declare her dead after nearly two weeks of searching, and authorities believe Konanki likely died by drowning, a conclusion her family accepts. Family members and friends have expressed their anguish over the prolonged uncertainty surrounding her whereabouts. Konanki was last seen at a beach with Joshua Riibe, who is cooperating with the investigation and has not been named as a suspect.

According to statements made by Joshua Riibe, the last person to be with Konanki, both individuals were caught in a strong current while swimming in the ocean, which may have contributed to the unfortunate circumstances of her disappearance. Riibe's cooperation with authorities has been noted, but he remains under scrutiny due to the nature of the incident. His family has voiced concerns regarding the treatment he is receiving, claiming that he is being detained without access to legal assistance, which adds another layer of complexity to the ongoing investigation.

As the search for Konanki has been ongoing for nearly two weeks, her family officially requested the Dominican police to declare their daughter dead, a formal process that would enable them to begin mourning her loss. The heartbreak expressed by the Konanki family underscores the difficult reality they face in accepting the apparent conclusion of the search efforts. They have stated that the declaration of death would provide much-needed closure and allow them to navigate their grief in a healthier manner.

Authorities involved in the case have indicated that their investigation is leaning towards the belief that Sudiksha likely died by drowning, a conclusion that the family has come to accept after days of uncertainty. They are prepared to comply with any necessary legal procedures to finalize the declaration process with the police. The acknowledgment of the tragedy as an accident is aimed at putting to rest any lingering speculation regarding foul play, as officials have stated they have found no evidence supporting such claims.

The tragic circumstances surrounding Sudiksha Konanki’s disappearance have stirred discussions about safety during spring break trips, especially at popular tourist destinations like Punta Cana. The case has highlighted the risks associated with ocean swimming, particularly in regions known for strong currents. In light of this incident, authorities are expected to review safety regulations and communication protocols for tourists in order to enhance awareness of potential dangers.

Vigil gatherings in support of Sudiksha’s family have begun to emerge, unifying students and members of the University of Pittsburgh community in solidarity. Many have taken to social media to share messages of hope.

As the Konanki family waits for the outcome of their request for a declaration of death, they continue to hold onto cherished memories of their daughter. The grieving process for families in similar situations can be incredibly complex, especially when coupled with ongoing inquiries and the desire for accountability amidst tragedy. For the time being, the investigation continues, however it appears the focus on closure for the family has taken precedence, as they navigate their loss alongside authorities’ assurances that their investigation remains thorough and careful.