The University of South Florida community is grieving the deaths of two international doctoral students, remembered by friends as close companions and “family away from home,” following a double homicide investigation that has shaken the campus in Tampa.
Authorities have charged a former student and roommate in connection with the case, while investigators continue to recover and identify remains.
Victims Remembered as Close Friends and Scholars
The victims, Nahida Bristy and Zamil Limon, were both in their 20s and originally from Bangladesh. They had come to the United States to pursue advanced studies at the University of South Florida, where they were pursuing doctoral-level education in different academic fields.
Friends described Limon as a kind and reserved student studying geography and environmental science, while Bristy was pursuing chemical engineering. Both arrived in the U.S. within the last two years to continue their academic careers.
Students who knew them said the pair quickly became central figures within the Bangladeshi student community on campus, forming close social ties and supporting other international students adjusting to life abroad.
“Family Away From Home” in Shock
Fellow students expressed deep grief and disbelief at the killings, describing the victims as integral members of their social circle.
Many members of the campus Bangladeshi community said they relied on one another for emotional support, shared meals, and cultural connection while studying far from home.
One student described the group as a tightly connected family unit, saying they often spent time together at campus events and gatherings. Others said the news of their deaths felt especially disturbing because the incident occurred within what they considered a safe academic environment.
Suspect Charged in Double Murder Case
Authorities have charged Hisham Abugharbieh, a former student and roommate of Limon, with two counts of first-degree murder. Law enforcement officials say he was taken into custody following a brief standoff in Tampa.
In addition to the murder charges, prosecutors have filed multiple related charges, including improper handling of remains, failure to report a death, false imprisonment, and evidence tampering.
Court records indicate that additional human remains discovered in the area are still undergoing identification as part of the ongoing investigation.
The suspect remains in custody without bond as the legal process continues. His attorney has not publicly commented on the allegations.
Campus and Community Response
The tragedy has deeply affected students at the University of South Florida, particularly within its international and Muslim student communities.
Campus organizations, including student cultural associations, have been assisting grieving peers and coordinating support efforts for those affected. Community members have also worked with the university to ensure that cultural and religious practices are respected in handling the victims’ remains.
A campus Muslim student organization issued a statement mourning the loss of the two students, describing them as deeply valued members of the community whose deaths have left a significant emotional impact.
Legal Proceedings Moving Forward
Prosecutors have confirmed that the case will proceed to a grand jury review in the coming weeks. Following that process, authorities will determine whether to pursue the death penalty.
Hillsborough County prosecutors emphasized that the case remains under active investigation and that additional decisions will depend on forthcoming legal proceedings and evidence review.
A Community Seeking Answers
As the investigation continues, students and faculty are grappling with grief and uncertainty. Many international students have expressed concerns about safety while also emphasizing the strong sense of community they share on campus.
For now, classmates and friends of Bristy and Limon say their focus remains on honoring their memory and supporting one another through the aftermath of a tragedy that has left the university community in mourning.
