A 27-year-old Indian woman, Nikitha Godishala, was found dead with stab wounds inside her former boyfriend’s apartment in Columbia, Maryland, just days after he reportedly filed a missing person report, US authorities said. Howard County Police have issued an arrest warrant against 26-year-old Arjun Sharma on charges of first- and second-degree murder in connection with her death.

Ex-Boyfriend Leaves US Amid Investigation

Police stated that Sharma approached authorities on Friday, claiming he last saw Godishala on New Year’s Eve at his apartment on Twin Rivers Road. However, investigators later discovered that Sharma had already left the United States and flown to India the same day. Preliminary findings indicate that the killing likely occurred shortly after 7 pm on New Year’s Eve.

Authorities obtained a search warrant for Sharma’s apartment, where Godishala’s body was found with visible stab wounds. The motive behind the killing remains unclear, and the investigation is ongoing, police added.

Indian Embassy Extends Support

The Indian embassy has been in touch with Godishala’s family and is providing full consular assistance, according to media reports. Authorities in both countries are coordinating efforts to ensure Sharma faces charges and that the investigation progresses swiftly.

This tragic incident has raised concerns about personal safety and the importance of timely action when individuals go missing. Howard County officials have urged anyone with information to come forward to aid the investigation.