A Maryland woman was tragically found dead, having been fatally stabbed, in the apartment of her ex-boyfriend, who had earlier reported her missing before fleeing to India.

The victim, 27-year-old Nikitha Godishala, was allegedly killed by her former partner, 26-year-old Arjun Sharma, in his Columbia apartment on New Year’s Eve, according to detectives in Howard County.

Authorities suspect that Sharma attempted to mislead them by reporting Godishala’s disappearance himself on Friday, before promptly catching a flight to India.

Police uncovered Godishala’s body, bearing multiple stab wounds, during a search of Sharma’s residence the following day. This grim discovery has led to Sharma facing charges of first and second-degree murder.

Law enforcement has issued an arrest warrant for Sharma, as the investigation, which remains complex, continues. The authorities have yet to determine a motive for the alleged crime.

The convoluted investigation is ongoing, and authorities have not yet identified a possible motive for Sharma’s alleged crime. 

Given the fact that he has left the country, the Howard County Police Department is working with federal officials to track down and detain Sharma. 

 Nikitha Godishala, 27, was allegedly slain by her ex-boyfriend, Arjun Sharma

Her body was found inside of Sharma’s apartment in Columbia, Maryland 

The Indian Embassy confirmed on X that officials have been in touch with the victim’s heartbroken family. 

‘The Embassy is in contact with the family of Ms. Nikitha Godishala and is extending all possible consular assistance,’ the statement reads. 

‘The Embassy is also following up the matter with the local authorities.’ 

Godishala lived in Ellicott City, Maryland, and worked as a data and strategy analyst, according to her LinkedIn profile. 

She studied at Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University in Hyderabad, India, to earn a doctorate degree in pharmacy. 

The ambitious academic continued her education at the University of Baltimore County, obtaining a master’s degree in health information technology. 

According to a Facebook post she shared in February 2025, expressing interest in moving to Orlando, Florida, she loved cooking and exploring new places.

‘In my free time, you’ll find me walking my dog, binge-watching Netflix, or taking workout classes,’ she wrote, describing herself for potential landlords and roommates.

Godishala shared glimpses of her life on social media and worked as as a data and strategy analyst

According to a Facebook post she shared in February 2025, expressing interest in moving to Orlando, Florida, she loved cooking and exploring new places

She also had a young Golden Retriever mix, which she adored. 

Godishala’s social media offered a glimpse into her life, featuring photos of her smiling with friends and celebrating life accomplishments and milestones. 

Just three weeks ago, she was celebrating receiving the All-In Award from Vheda Health, the company she worked for, in recognition of her diligence and devotion to her career. 

The Daily Mail has reached out to Howard County police and the Indian Embassy for comment.