Tampa, Florida | April 25, 2026
A developing criminal investigation at the University of South Florida (USF) has escalated into a confirmed double homicide case, following the disappearance and deaths of two Bangladeshi doctoral students and the arrest of their roommate.
Authorities confirmed the deaths of Zamil (Jamil) Limon. A USF doctoral student, whose body was recovered near the Howard Frankland Bridge in Tampa Bay after he was reported missing earlier this month.
Another USF doctoral student Nahida Bristy from Bangladesh, who was reported missing on the same day. Investigators now believe she was also killed in the same incident.
Police arrested Hisham Saleh Abugharbieh, the roommate of Zamil Limon, in Tampa following a SWAT-assisted operation. He is now facing two counts of first-degree murder, Evidence tampering, False imprisonment, Failure to report a death, Battery-related charges. Law enforcement says the upgraded charges reflect evidence linking him to the deaths of both victims.
In the meantime, Investigators’ Reconstructed Timeline (Last 48 Hours). Based on police analysis and charging documents:
~48–36 hours before disappearance:
Tension and possible conflict reported inside the shared residence.
~36–24 hours before disappearance:
Investigators believe a physical confrontation may have occurred inside the apartment. Early signs of violence are suspected during this window.
~24 hours before disappearance (critical period):
Zamil Limon was last confirmed alive. Nahida Bristy was last seen on or near USF campus.
Following hours:
Authorities believe both victims were killed during a sequence of events linked to the residence.
Afterwards:
Evidence suggests possible movement and concealment of a body, leading to recovery of Zamil Limon near Tampa Bay.
Officials have not confirmed a final motive, but current investigative focus includes: A personal dispute between roommates, A possible escalation of a domestic confrontation, Evidence suggesting both victims were known to the suspect
Authorities have ruled out, at this time, any confirmed terror, financial, or ideological motive.
The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office has classified the case as a double homicide investigation. Prosecutors have formally charged the suspect with two counts of first-degree murder. And a full forensic and digital evidence review is ongoing
USF has expressed deep condolences and confirmed cooperation with law enforcement. Counseling and support services have been expanded for students and staff impacted by the tragedy.
As of this morning, what began as a missing persons investigation has now become a major double homicide case involving international graduate students, with prosecutors alleging a deadly escalation of a personal conflict inside a shared residence.
