Sudiksha Konanki’s Grieving Parents Request Legal Declaration of Death.
The parents of Sudiksha Konanki, a University of Pittsburgh student who tragically disappeared in Punta Cana during spring break, have requested that Dominican authorities issue a formal declaration of her death.
Her heartbroken parents, Subbarayudu and SreeDevi, have now submitted an official request to the National Police for a 'legal declaration of death.'
The heartbreaking request comes 11 days after Sudiksha went missing, following a search effort by local authorities and multiple agencies. Her disappearance, initially believed to be the result of drowning, has left her family seeking closure and the ability to begin the grieving process.
Details of Sudiksha's Disappearance and the Search Efforts
Sudiksha Konanki vanished on March 6, 2025, in the early hours of the morning while staying at the Riu Republica Resort in Punta Cana. Surveillance footage from the resort shows Sudiksha and a 22-year-old man, Joshua Riibe, walking toward the beach with their group of friends before she was lost to the rough surf. Despite an intense multi-agency search, Dominican authorities had warned early on that Sudiksha likely drowned due to the turbulent conditions of the sea.
Sudiksha Konanki went missing from a beach at the Riu Republica Hotel in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, on March 6. Authorities believe she likely drowned.
Joshua Riibe’s Role and Statement to Authorities
Joshua Riibe, the last person to see Sudiksha alive, has cooperated fully with law enforcement. Riibe, who is trained as a lifeguard, told police that the two went for a swim and were knocked down by a large wave. He reported that he attempted to pull Sudiksha to safety but lost sight of her when she was waist-deep in the water. Authorities have stated that they do not suspect foul play, and Riibe has not been charged with any wrongdoing.
The Family's Request for Legal Death Declaration
In a formal written request to the Dominican National Police, Sudiksha’s parents, Subbarayudu and SreeDevi, have asked for a legal declaration of death. This request marks a painful step for the family, as they accept the reality that their daughter is unlikely to be found alive.
The letter, which has been submitted after much deliberation, states that while the declaration will not ease their grief, it will help provide some closure and allow them to begin addressing matters related to Sudiksha’s absence. The parents have also expressed their trust in the authorities' conclusion that Sudiksha drowned, as her belongings were found on the beach near the location where she was last seen.
Investigation and Public Response: The Search for Answers
The search for Sudiksha Konanki involved significant efforts by the Dominican Armed Forces, including the use of drones to aid in the search. Surveillance footage and the discovery of her clothes on the beach further pointed to the likelihood that she had entered the water before vanishing. Despite the devastating outcome, the incident has drawn significant media attention. Sudiksha’s disappearance has sparked conversations about safety during spring break, particularly the risks of being near the ocean in unpredictable conditions.
Sudiksha’s Tragic End
Sudiksha’s tragic story has captured the attention of many, particularly due to the mysterious circumstances surrounding her disappearance. While her family faces an immense loss, their request for a legal declaration of death represents a crucial step in the grieving process. For those considering spring break travels, it is important to be aware of the risks posed by natural elements such as strong waves and currents. Sudiksha’s story is a sobering reminder of the importance of safety and vigilance when enjoying time near the ocean.
Sudiksha Konanki’s disappearance has left her family devastated, and while her tragic passing is difficult to accept, the formal request for a legal declaration of death marks an important step toward closure. This event has brought attention to the safety risks of spring break vacations, particularly regarding the unpredictability of the ocean.
Authorities have confirmed their belief that Sudiksha drowned, based on evidence found near the beach where she was last seen. The intense media coverage of this tragedy also highlights the need for increased awareness about water safety during vacations. Sudiksha’s parents have expressed their trust in the authorities and hope their daughter’s memory will inspire others to take precautions when near the sea.
