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As the search for missing college student Sudiksha Konanki, who disappeared during her spring break, approaches its eighth day, concerns are mounting regarding the potential loss of crucial forensic evidence. Retired FBI agent Scott Duffey highlighted the importance of timely investigation, noting that each passing day diminishes the forensic capabilities available to authorities.
Duffey stated that evidence from a physical examination could provide vital insights into the cause of death, should it be determined that Konanki is deceased. He warned that if she was not abducted but rather ended up in the water, the chances of recovering evidence deteriorate daily.
The investigation has become further complicated by the involvement of multiple jurisdictions, including authorities from both the United States and India. Duffey indicated that statements from officials in the Dominican Republic, where Konanki was last seen, suggesting she may have drowned further cloud the situation. He expressed concerns that premature conclusions about drowning could undermine the integrity of the investigation.
Duffey noted that the Dominican authorities should refrain from drawing conclusions in the absence of a body. He believes that doing so not only misleads the public but also affects the family of the missing student and the police’s reputation.
In a recent development, Dominican authorities shifted their focus, stating that the search for the missing University of Pittsburgh student now extends beyond the possibility of an accidental drowning. They indicated that all circumstances surrounding her disappearance are under examination.
Duffey labeled the initial statements regarding drowning as significant missteps. He expressed doubts about whether a comprehensive crime scene investigation was conducted and questioned whether any of Konanki’s belongings had been recovered.
Timeline of Disappearance
Konanki was last captured on hotel surveillance footage in the early hours of March 6, after 4 a.m. She was seen walking with an unidentified young man, who had his arms around her shoulders. The man, later identified by authorities, was recorded entering the hotel shortly after.
Following the surveillance footage, the Dominican National Police announced that they are investigating the young man, who reportedly claimed to have been in the water at the same beach. Authorities are actively questioning him to confirm his version of events.
According to local reports, the last person seen with Konanki told police various accounts of that night. He initially stated that he entered the water with her, but due to the rough surf, he felt ill and returned to the shore, leaving Konanki behind. In other accounts, he claimed he left her in shallow water before passing out on the beach.
Authorities discovered Konanki’s sandals and a beach cover-up on a chair near the water, leading to more questions about what may have transpired. Duffey emphasized the need to assess the intoxication levels of both Konanki and the young man, as this could significantly impact their accounts of events.
He cautioned against casting judgment solely based on possible intoxication. Instead, he noted that discrepancies in stories may arise from impaired memories, and physical evidence, such as vomit found on the beach, can be instrumental in corroborating firsthand accounts.
Retired FBI agent Duffey remarked that investigators could glean information about the integrity of witness statements by analyzing behavioral cues during interviews. As long as the young man remains cooperative, his willingness to share information could lead to further breakthroughs in the case.
Fox News Digital has contacted the FBI for additional insights regarding their involvement and any updates on the investigation. The focus remains on uncovering the truth behind Sudiksha Konanki’s mysterious disappearance and bringing closure to her family and friends.
Fox News Digital’s Audrey Conklin contributed to this report.
