A shocking incident has come to light involving two missing graduate students from the University of South Florida. One student has sadly been found dead, while the other is still missing. The case has raised serious concerns and is currently under investigation by local authorities.
What Happened in the Case
On April 24, officials from the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that the remains of 27-year-old Zamil Limon were found on the Howard Frankland Bridge in Florida. This discovery came after he had been reported missing for several days.
At the same time, another student, Nahida Bristy, also 27, is still untraceable. Authorities are continuing their search efforts and have not yet confirmed her whereabouts.
Arrest of a Suspect
Later on the same day, police arrested 26-year-old Hisham Abugharbieh from a house in North Tampa. According to reports by NBC News, he was once Limon’s roommate.
The arrest happened after police responded to a domestic violence complaint at his family home. Initially, Abugharbieh refused to come out, which led to a tense situation. A SWAT team was called, and after about 20 minutes, he came out of the house with his hands raised.
He was taken into custody and charged with several serious offences, including:
- Simple battery
- False imprisonment
- Tampering with evidence
- Not reporting a death
- Improper handling of a dead body
These charges were reported by The Tampa Bay Times.
Investigation Still Ongoing
Police have started a full investigation into Limon’s death. An autopsy is being conducted to find out the exact cause. Officials have not yet shared further details about how or when he died.
Authorities had earlier mentioned that both Limon and Bristy were considered “endangered” when they were reported missing on April 17. They were last seen separately on April 16 in Tampa.
Last Known Details About the Students
Nahida Bristy, a chemical engineering student, was last seen at the university’s NES Building around 10 a.m. on April 16.
Her brother shared with NBC News that she last spoke to her family the same day. He also said that she and Limon had been in a relationship earlier, but were not dating at present.
On the other hand, Limon’s family said they last spoke to him on April 13. He was busy with his studies and had asked them not to contact him unless it was urgent.
Family Reactions and Background
Both families have expressed deep concern and shock over the incident. Limon’s younger brother mentioned that the two students were serious about their studies and would not suddenly disappear without informing anyone.
There were also claims that they were planning their future careers and were focused on their education.
Limon was working on research related to artificial intelligence in environmental science, as reported by CBS News. He was expected to present his thesis soon, making the situation even more tragic.
