Missing ASU Student Pleads for Assistance

The family of a student from Arizona State University is seeking help after he vanished during a trip to the Grand Canyon just days before his graduation.

Sundarsh Krishna, who is 26 years old, last communicated with his family on April 27. He mentioned plans to visit the South Rim before heading to Las Vegas. He was supposed to be back for his final exams and a job interview, but that never happened.

“We haven’t had any luck finding him,” shared Pooja Sivananjappa, his sister-in-law.

The National Park Service stated that Krishna was last observed on the Rim Trail between Bright Angel Lodge and Mojave Point between 4 p.m. on April 27 and midnight on April 28.

Authorities noted that Krishna didn’t drive and may have used a ride-sharing service. His family mentioned that his cellphone has been inactive since the day he disappeared.

“They’re doing all they can, but we just don’t have a clear idea of where he might be,” Sivananjappa commented.

Search operations have ramped up at the South Rim, involving over 30 search and rescue personnel over several days.

Officials from the park explained that a variety of techniques are being employed, including scanning the rim trail, walking routes into the canyon, technical rope work, aerial surveillance, and drone use.

Rangers are focusing their search on areas around Hermit Road and the Rim. Krishna was reportedly last seen in athletic clothing; he stands approximately 5 feet 10 inches tall, weighs around 160 pounds, and has black hair and brown eyes.

Before his disappearance, investigators mentioned that Krishna was likely carrying a black backpack, which was later turned in to hotel staff at Bright Angel Lodge in the early hours of April 28.

Rangers are currently identifying the individual who returned the backpack, believing they could have important information, though this person is not considered a suspect.

His family also hired a private investigator to assist in the search. Krishna moved from India to Arizona in 2024 to obtain a master’s degree in computer science at ASU, and was set to graduate on May 9. His family describes him as cheerful and caring, with a strong connection to his loved ones.

“It’s hard not to like him,” Sivananjappa expressed. “He’s always ready to lend a hand… He has such a kind heart.”

Anyone with information about Krishna’s whereabouts between April 27 and April 28 is encouraged to reach out to the National Park Service Bureau of Investigation tip line at 888-653-0009.