Howard County Man Wanted for Murder After Ex-Girlfriend Found Stabbed

COLUMBIA, Md. – Howard County Police have issued an arrest warrant for 26-year-old Arjun Sharma on first-degree and second-degree murder charges in the brutal stabbing death of his 27-year-old ex-girlfriend, Nikitha Godishala, of Ellicott City. Authorities say Sharma reported her missing on January 2, then immediately fled the United States on a flight to India, just hours before detectives discovered her body in his Columbia apartment.

The shocking discovery has left the local community reeling, as investigators work with federal agencies to track down the suspect in what appears to be a premeditated act of violence over New Year’s Eve.

Timeline of the New Year’s Eve Tragedy

According to the Howard County Police Department, Godishala was last seen alive shortly after 7 p.m. on December 31, 2025, at Sharma’s apartment in the 10100 block of Twin Rivers Road in Columbia.

• On January 2, 2026, Sharma contacted police to report Godishala missing, claiming he last saw her on New Year’s Eve.
• Investigators quickly learned that Sharma had boarded an international flight to India later that same day.
• On January 3, detectives executed a search warrant at the apartment and found Godishala deceased with multiple stab wounds and other trauma.

Police believe the killing occurred on New Year’s Eve shortly after 7 p.m., describing elements of premeditation due to the suspect’s immediate flight from the country. No motive has been publicly released, and the investigation remains active.

Who Was Nikitha Godishala?

Nikitha Godishala, 27, originally from India, was a dedicated professional living in Ellicott City, Maryland. She held advanced degrees, including a Master’s in Health Information Technology from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, and worked as a Data and Strategy Analyst in the healthcare field.

Friends and colleagues remember her as bright, outgoing, and passionate about using data to improve lives. Her social media reflected a vibrant young woman enjoying friendships, career milestones, and life in the United States.

Concerned friends first raised alarms on social media when she stopped responding on New Year’s Eve, sharing photos and seeking help to locate her.

Police Pursue International Manhunt

Howard County Police are collaborating with federal law enforcement — including potential coordination with Interpol — to locate and apprehend Sharma. Officials have indicated that a Red Notice (an international arrest warrant) may be issued to facilitate extradition.

The Indian Embassy in Washington, D.C. has confirmed it is in contact with Godishala’s family, providing consular assistance and following up with local authorities.

Anyone with information is urged to contact the Howard County Police Department.

A Tragic Reminder of Domestic Violence Risks

This heartbreaking case highlights the dangers that can arise in personal relationships and the importance of community vigilance. As the investigation continues, the focus remains on bringing the suspect to justice and supporting those affected by this senseless loss.

Our thoughts are with Nikitha Godishala’s family, friends, and everyone who knew her during this difficult time.

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