A former University of South Florida (USF) student, Hisham Abugharbieh, has been charged with the brutal murders of his roommate, Zamil Limon, and Limon’s girlfriend, Nahida Bristy. Both victims, who were doctoral students from Bangladesh, disappeared earlier this month, sparking a widespread search.
Details of the Charges and Arrest
Abugharbieh, 26, has been charged with two counts of premeditated first-degree murder with a weapon. Limon’s remains were found on the Howard Frankland Bridge on Friday morning, but Bristy remains missing. Authorities are continuing their search for her.
Abugharbieh was initially arrested on Friday at his family’s home, where he was found in a standoff with police after a report of domestic violence. Officers were able to ensure his family’s safety before he barricaded himself inside. A SWAT team and crisis negotiators eventually took him into custody.
The Timeline of Events
The couple, both 27, were last seen on April 16. Limon, a graduate student in geography, environmental science, and policy, was last seen at his apartment near USF, where he lived with Abugharbieh. An hour later, Bristy, a chemical engineering Ph.D. candidate, was last seen on campus.
After Limon’s remains were discovered, it was revealed that Abugharbieh had a history of arrests, including charges of battery and burglary. These prior offenses were classified as misdemeanors, and he had completed a diversion program for first-time offenders in 2024.
Additionally, two domestic violence petitions had been filed against him by a family member in 2023, with one injunction granted by a judge.
The Tragic Impact on the Community
Bristy, who was studying chemical engineering, was remembered by her alma mater, Noakhali Science and Technology University, where she had completed her undergraduate degree.
The university expressed deep sorrow over her passing and demanded justice for her family. They described her as a talented and promising student, and the community is mourning her sudden loss.
The Search for Bristy and Investigation Continues
While Limon’s remains have been recovered, the search for Bristy continues, and authorities are asking anyone with information to contact the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office. An autopsy is being conducted to determine the exact cause of Limon’s death, and results are expected to be released soon.
Abugharbieh, who was no longer enrolled at USF, had attended the university from Spring 2021 to Spring 2023 and had been pursuing a degree in Management. He is now facing serious charges, and the legal process is just beginning, with a court hearing scheduled for April 28.
Community and Family Reactions
The tragic events have left a deep scar in the local community, particularly at USF. The university has expressed its condolences to the families of the victims and is cooperating with the authorities as they continue to investigate the case.
The loss of two young lives, both with promising futures, has left many in disbelief, and the community is seeking justice for the victims.
