Sudiksha Konanki, a 20-year-old student from the University of Pittsburgh, is believed to have tragically drowned while vacationing in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, on March 5, according to reports. Konanki, who was studying pre-med at the University of Pittsburgh, disappeared while enjoying a late-night walk on the beach with friends.
The Tragic Event
ABC News reports that Konanki was with five friends when they were strolling along the beach in the Caribbean resort town of Punta Cana. Four members of the group returned to their hotel in the evening, leaving Konanki and one of her friends behind. The pair decided to take a dip in the ocean, but during their swim, Konanki was swept away by a powerful wave.
According to the Dominican Republic Public Ministry, surveillance cameras captured footage of Konanki on the beach around 4:15 a.m. on March 6, marking the last time she was seen alive. Despite efforts to locate her, authorities confirmed her death after her body was found.
Family Speaks Out About Sudiksha Konanki’s Ambitious Future
Konanki’s father, Subbarayudu Konanki, shared his heartbreak with CNN, revealing that his daughter had been pursuing pre-med studies at the University of Pittsburgh. Describing her as an ambitious young woman with dreams of becoming a doctor, he expressed deep sorrow over her untimely passing.
Investigation and Police Inquiry
Authorities questioned the friends who were with Konanki at the time of the incident. Following the questioning, they were released without any charges. The Dominican authorities have labeled the event as an accidental drowning, although the investigation is ongoing.
