Tragic Discovery: Missing USF Student's Body Found, Roommate Arrested

Sat Apr 25 2026 20:59:45 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

The body of Zamil Limon, a 27-year-old doctoral student at the University of South Florida, was discovered on a bridge, while his girlfriend remains missing. His roommate has been arrested amid ongoing investigations.

Zamil Limon, a Bangladeshi doctoral student, went missing along with his girlfriend Nahida Bristy from the University of South Florida. His body was found on the Howard Frankland Bridge, while efforts continue to locate Bristy. His roommate, Hisham Saleh Abugharbeih, has been arrested on multiple charges, including unlawfully moving a dead body. The case has raised concerns and led to an extensive search operation by law enforcement.

The body of a Bangladeshi doctoral student who went missing with his girlfriend from the University of South Florida was found on a bridge over Tampa Bay, and his roommate has been taken into custody, law enforcement authorities said Friday.

Zamil Limon’s remains were found on the Howard Frankland bridge Friday morning, but Nahida Bristy is still missing, Hillsborough County Chief Deputy Joseph Maurer reported.

Hisham Saleh Abugharbeih, 26, Limon’s roommate, was arrested at his family’s home nearby on preliminary charges. These include unlawfully moving a dead body, failure to report a death, tampering with evidence, false imprisonment, and battery. Abugharbeih is expected to appear in court Saturday morning.

Authorities have continued to search for Nahida, with law enforcement dive teams working near the bridge. Maurer indicated the search efforts are ongoing and urged the public to share any information that might be helpful.

“This is a deeply disturbing case that has shaken our community,” stated Sheriff Chad Chronister, commenting on the implications of the investigation. The discovery of Limon’s remains has left many in the community anxious for a resolution.

Limon and Bristy were last seen on April 16, with Limon disappearing from his apartment and Bristy being spotted an hour later at a campus science building.

A family member contacted authorities after being unable to reach either of them last week. Investigators spoke to Abugharbeih prior to his arrest, but he chose to end the conversation. He later resumed discussions with detectives following his apprehension.

An autopsy is underway to ascertain the cause and manner of Limon's death, with results anticipated shortly.

Abugharbeih has a history of previous arrests, including domestic violence incidents and battery charges. Hillsborough County Court records detail petitions of domestic violence by a family member, with mixed judicial outcomes.

The tragic circumstances surrounding Limon’s disappearance and the exceptional response from local law enforcement signify a pressing need for community vigilance regarding safety.