SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic — A senior from St. Cloud University, Minnesota, named Joshua Riibe has left the Dominican Republic after being considered a key witness in the disappearance of University of Pittsburgh student Sudiksha Konanki. This decision came after a five-hour trial where Judge Edwin Rijo determined that Riibe, a witness in the investigation, should be granted full rights and free movement according to Dominican laws.
The exact destination Riibe chose after departing the Caribbean remains undisclosed. His lawyers disclosed that the La Altagracia prosecutor’s office offered to return his passport. However, Riibe preferred to receive a new one from the U.S. consulate to ensure his anonymity.
Despite being detained previously, Riibe was released on Tuesday as per Judge Rijo’s orders, predicated on the understanding that he could assist the authorities without being held. Notably, Riibe was never considered a suspect in the case.
Riibe recounted to the police, as reported by both Dominican media and prominent U.S. networks, that he and Konanki were drinking and kissing in the ocean when a current swept them away. Riibe, an ex-lifeguard, managed to bring her back to shore. He described vomiting from exhaustion on reaching the beach and claimed that Konanki went to retrieve her belongings but was gone upon his next glance. He learned of her disappearance much later.
Konanki’s parents have requested the Dominican authorities to declare their daughter legally deceased. Subbarayudu and Sreedevi Konanki noted that despite an extensive search, officials believe Sudiksha may have drowned. They emphasized that this step is crucial for them to begin the healing process and address the ramifications of her absence, hoping this decision will aid in commemorating her life.
Michael Chapman, the sheriff of Loudoun County, Virginia, where the family resides, expressed empathy for the family’s situation. The sheriff affirmed ongoing collaboration with Dominican authorities as they continue to examine case evidence. Chapman acknowledged the family’s perspective that Sudiksha likely drowned, reaffirming their support irrespective of the outcome decided by Dominican authorities.
Sudiksha had traveled to the Dominican Republic for spring break with five female friends on March 3. She was last seen on March 6 at the beach near their resort, as reported by the police. Initially born in India, Konanki later became a U.S. permanent resident.
