Parents of Missing Student Sudiksha Konanki Seek Legal Declaration of Death

Sudiksha Konanki’s parents are seeking a legal declaration of death to gain closure following her disappearance presumed due to drowning. Since March 6, her body has not been found. The Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office, along with legal experts, is aiding the family in this emotional process. The ongoing investigation in the Dominican Republic continues without criminal evidence against a person of interest.

The parents of Sudiksha Konanki, a missing Indian student, have requested that she be declared dead to facilitate closure following her presumed accidental drowning. According to the Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office in Virginia, this aligns with the grieving parents’ desire for recognition of their daughter’s death. The Dominican authorities will ultimately decide on this legal request.

Sudiksha Konanki disappeared on March 6 while at Punta Cana beach, and her body has yet to be discovered. Her family has communicated that pursuing a legal declaration of death would aid in their grieving process and allow them to manage related financial matters. Investigators currently suspect drowning, yet her death has not been officially confirmed.

The ongoing investigation in the Dominican Republic involves complexities regarding the declaration of death without a body. Attorney Julio Cury noted that such a declaration necessitates special authorization from Congress or the president. The Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office is assisting the family through legal procedures as required.

Personal injury attorney Phillip DiLucente stated that the family’s request stems from a powerful need for closure and recognition of their daughter’s legacy. Meanwhile, a legal declaration would also enable the family to resolve issues pertaining to her college savings and insurance policies, which are currently in limbo.

In a poignant interview, Ms. Konanki’s father expressed the profound sadness of accepting her presumed drowning. He urged for prayers to support their family during this difficult time. Sudiksha, a University of Pittsburgh student, had traveled to Punta Cana with friends. Surveillance footage confirmed her presence at a hotel bar before heading to the beach with a group, which included a person of interest, Joshua Riibe.

After entering the beach around 4:15 AM, only Ms. Konanki remained unaccounted for by 5 AM. Authorities have seized Mr. Riibe’s passport as he was the last known individual with her. Though he was interrogated for several hours, he is not presently considered a suspect. He reported a failed attempt to rescue her after being caught in a wave. The investigation continues, classified as a missing persons case rather than a criminal investigation by both US and Dominican officials.

The case of Sudiksha Konanki highlights the complex emotional and legal challenges faced by families of missing persons. Her parents’ request for a legal declaration of death aims to provide closure and enable them to manage financial affairs, while the investigation into her disappearance remains ongoing. The support of authorities can potentially ease the burdens faced by grieving families amid such tragedies.

Original Source: www.ndtv.com