A shocking tragedy has unfolded near the University of South Florida’s Tampa campus, where a 26-year-old man now faces two counts of first-degree murder in connection with the disappearance of two doctoral students.
According to the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO), evidence presented to the state attorney’s office led to the charges against Hisham Abugharbieh, who was the roommate of one of the victims. Abugharbieh was taken into custody on Friday—the same day that the remains of one student were discovered.
**Victims Identified**
The two missing students have been identified as Zamil Limon and Nahida Bristy, both 27 years old and pursuing doctorates at USF.
- **Zamil Limon** was studying the application of artificial intelligence in environmental science. His family shared that he was scheduled to present his doctoral thesis this week. His remains were found Friday morning on the Howard Franklin Bridge in Tampa. The cause of death is pending autopsy results.
- **Nahida Bristy** was a chemical engineering doctoral student. Her family told CBS News that authorities have informed them she is presumed dead, based on a large volume of blood found at the residence Abugharbieh shared with Limon. According to Bristy’s brother, Zahid Prato, police believe her body may have been dismembered and may never be recovered. HCSO stated Saturday that they are still actively searching for Bristy.
**Details of the Arrest and Charges**
Deputies initially responded to a domestic violence call at a home in the Lake Forest Community, a neighborhood near the USF Tampa campus. That response led them to take Abugharbieh into custody on Friday.
In addition to the two first-degree murder charges (premeditated murder with a weapon), Abugharbieh faces a series of other felonies, including:
- Battery
- False imprisonment
- Tampering with evidence
- Failure to report a death
- Unlawfully moving a body
**Ongoing Investigation**
The case has sent shockwaves through the USF academic community, where both students were known for their dedication and promising research.
Authorities have not released a motive, and the investigation remains active. The sheriff’s office has urged anyone with additional information to come forward.
As the search for Nahida Bristy continues, the university has offered counseling services to students and faculty. Our thoughts remain with the families, friends, and colleagues of both victims during this devastating time.
*This is a developing story. Check back for updates.*
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