Body of USF doctoral student found; roommate arrested in missing case
Body of USF doctoral student found; roommate arrested in missing case
A body was found in the investigation of two missing USF doctoral students, with one suspect in custody as search efforts continue for the second student.
Two University of South Florida doctoral students, Zamil Limon and Nahida Bristy, vanished about a week ago, sparking a campus-wide and citywide search. Limon’s remains were found Friday on the Howard Frankland Bridge, while authorities said Bristy remains missing and a search for her continues.
A suspect identified as Limon’s roommate, Hisham Saleh Abugharbeih, was later arrested after officers responded to a domestic-violence call at a home near campus. He barricaded himself inside, the situation escalated to a SWAT response, and he eventually surrendered. He faces a list of charges including domestic violence battery, false imprisonment, tampering with evidence, failure to report a death and improper removal of a body.
An autopsy is planned to determine Limon’s cause of death, and investigators have not yet identified a motive for the alleged crimes. Bristy has not been located, and investigators are asking anyone with information to contact police. Limon studied geography, environmental science and policy; Bristy was pursuing chemical engineering at USF.
The case has drawn attention from the South Tampa community and international student groups, with families in Bangladesh awaiting updates. As the search and legal proceedings unfold, authorities point to ongoing investigations and the need for tips from residents near the campus and surrounding areas. USF police say the university will cooperate with investigators and provide updates as available. The family of Bristy is seeking information and prayers for her safe return.
