A breakdown of everything you need to know about one of America’s most heartbreaking spring break stories.
Sudiksha Konanki, a 20-year-old University of Pittsburgh student, disappeared on March 6, 2025, during a spring break trip to Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. She was last seen around 4:15 a.m. near the RIU Republica Resort beach, accompanied by Joshua Riibe, a 22-year-old student from Minnesota. Riibe reported that while they were swimming, a strong wave swept them out to sea. He claimed to have helped Konanki back to shore but lost sight of her afterward.
Many find themselves asking about Riibe’s potential involvement while others theorize about other forms of foul play that may have caused young Konaki’s disappearance.Following an extensive search, Dominican authorities concluded that Konanki likely drowned, as her belongings were found near the beach where she was last seen. Riibe has cooperated with the investigation and is not considered a suspect. What truly occurred we may never know.
Konaki’s family is devastated and recently asked authorities to pronounce their daughter dead so they can begin their grieving and healing process. No doubt distraught over the disappearance of their daughter.
