Indian Woman Stabbed in Maryland; Ex-Boyfriend Flees to India, US Police Say
Howard County Police charge Arjun Sharma with murder after Nikitha Godishala found dead in Columbia apartment
Maryland, Jan 5: A 27 year old Indian woman was found stabbed to death inside an apartment in Columbia, Maryland, officials said, with her former boyfriend now wanted for murder after fleeing to India.
Victim identified: The deceased, Nikitha Godishala, was a healthcare professional based in Maryland.
Suspect charged: Police have charged her ex-partner, Arjun Sharma, with first and second degree murder. Sharma reportedly left the United States for India just hours after reporting Godishala missing on January 2.
Investigation details
Sharma told officers he last saw Godishala on December 31 at his Twin Rivers Road apartment. A police search the next day revealed her body, showing multiple stab wounds, believed to have been inflicted shortly after 7 pm that evening.
Authorities have yet to determine a motive, and the investigation is ongoing. An arrest warrant has been issued against Sharma, and US officials are coordinating with federal agencies to apprehend him.
Extradition prospects
The United States and India maintain an extradition treaty, but officials noted that such cases can take months of legal hearings and diplomatic coordination before a suspect can be returned to face charges.
