Missing American college student's hometown sheriff names person of interest five days into search
Share and Follow


The hometown sheriff’s department of a missing American college student has named a person of interest in Sudiksha Konanki’s disappearance in the Dominican Republic.

Loudoun County, Virginia Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Thomas Julia told Fox News Digital that 24-year-old Joshua Riibe is a “person of interest” in the college student’s disappearance during the University of Pittsburgh student’s spring break.

Julia said that Riibe “has been interviewed at length,” but noted its’ “still a missing person case, not a criminal case.” Riibe has not been accused of any crime in the case.

“Sheriff [Michael] Chapman wants to make sure the investigation is comprehensive and includes all possible assets and techniques,” he said. “We are working closely with the FBI on all of this, and they are working with the Dominican National Police.”

“This includes hotel employees where Konanki and her companions were staying, with the goal of gathering information to corroborate her movements, interactions, and any relevant details for the investigation,” they said.

When asked about a Monday report that Konanki may have drowned, a spokesperson for the Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office told Fox News Digital that authorities “have heard this and have seen no evidence presented at this time.”

A joint investigation into Konanki’s disappearance is being conducted by the U.S. Embassy in the Dominican Republic, the Dominican National Police and the Dominican Prosecutors Office. The FBI is also assisting.

The FBI declined to provide additional details on the investigation.

Fox News Digital has reached out to Joshua Riibe. 

Share and Follow
You May Also Like
What will happen to Arrowhead when the Chiefs leave?

The Future of Arrowhead Stadium: What’s Next After the Chiefs’ Departure?

Concerns are mounting that Arrowhead Stadium might become a neglected “white elephant”…
Chicago weather: Parts of Illinois cleaning up after storm damage; NWS survey crews determine 5 tornadoes touched down

Storm Aftermath: Illinois Communities Recover as 5 Tornadoes Confirmed by NWS

A powerful storm system swept through northern Illinois on Sunday, leaving a…
Iranian protesters clash with security forces as tear gas fills Tehran streets amid nationwide unrest

Tear Gas and Tension: Tehran Erupts as Protesters and Security Forces Face Off

On Monday, the atmosphere in Iran intensified as protests erupted in key…
$400,000 worth of lobster stolen on way to Costco stores

Thieves Make Off with $400K in Lobsters Destined for Costco Shelves

The logistics firm tasked with securing a driver for the delivery suspects…
How William and Kate are 'preparing' Prince George for his unique role

William and Kate Strategically Prepare Prince George for His Future Role

The children of the Prince and Princess of Wales, William and Catherine,…
Texas couple found dead inside mansion as cops found son with gun

Tragic Discovery: Texas Couple Found Deceased in Mansion, Son Located with Firearm

A tragic incident unfolded in Texas as a cherished couple was reportedly…
NASCAR driver Denny Hamlin's father killed in North Carolina house fire, mother critically injured

Tragic House Fire Claims Life of Denny Hamlin’s Father, Leaves Mother Fighting for Survival in North Carolina

In a quiet Gaston County neighborhood, the serene atmosphere was abruptly shattered…
Trump to receive Israel's highest honor after Mar-a-Lago lovefest

Donald Trump Set to Be Honored with Israel’s Top Award Following Mar-a-Lago Celebration

Donald Trump continues his pursuit of the prestigious Nobel Prize, but for…