Police in Howard County, Maryland, are leading an international manhunt for a man suspected of murdering his ex-girlfriend in his apartment before fleeing the country.
A Grisly Discovery on New Year's Eve
On Saturday, 31 December, detectives made a horrific discovery inside an apartment in Columbia. The body of 27-year-old Nikitha Godishala was found with multiple stab wounds. Authorities believe she was killed just after 7pm on New Year's Eve.
The prime suspect is her 26-year-old ex-boyfriend, Arjun Sharma. In a calculated move, Sharma himself reported Godishala missing on Friday, 30 December. Police allege this was a deliberate ploy to mislead investigators. On the same day he filed the report, Sharma boarded a flight to India.
An International Investigation Unfolds
The Howard County Police Department has secured a warrant for Sharma's arrest, charging him with first and second-degree murder. With the suspect now abroad, local police are working closely with federal officials and international agencies to track him down.
The Indian Embassy confirmed via social media platform X that it is aware of the case. 'The Embassy is in contact with the family of Ms. Nikitha Godishala and is extending all possible consular assistance,' a statement read. 'The Embassy is also following up the matter with the local authorities.'
As of now, detectives have not publicly identified a motive for the alleged crime. The investigation remains active and complex.
Remembering Nikitha Godishala
Nikitha Godishala, who lived in nearby Ellicott City, was a dedicated professional. Her LinkedIn profile showed she worked as a data and strategy analyst for Vheda Health. She was a highly educated individual, holding a doctorate in pharmacy from Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University in Hyderabad, India, and a master's in health information technology from the University of Baltimore County.
Her social media painted a picture of a vibrant, ambitious young woman. She recently celebrated receiving an 'All-In Award' from her employer for her diligence. In a Facebook post from February 2025, she expressed an interest in moving to Orlando, Florida, describing herself to potential flatmates as someone who loved cooking, exploring new places, walking her dog, and watching Netflix.
She was a devoted pet owner to a young Golden Retriever mix and often shared smiling photos with friends, marking life's milestones. Her sudden and violent death has left her family and community heartbroken.
