University of South Florida (USF) doctoral students Nahida Bristy, 27, and Zamil Limon, 27, both from Bangladesh, have been confirmed dead following their disappearances on April 16. Their remains, identified after being found near the Howard Frankland Bridge and in St. Petersburg respectively, have sent shockwaves through the academic community.
Human remains found near a Tampa Bay area bridge have been identified as Nahida Bristy, one of two USF doctoral students who disappeared mid-April. The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the identification on May 1. Bristy, like Limon, suffered multiple stab wounds.
Bristy was a doctoral student in chemical engineering, while Limon pursued studies in geography and environmental science and policy. The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office has charged Hisham Abugharbieh with two counts of first-degree premeditated murder in connection with their deaths. Limon’s remains were discovered on April 24, with Bristy’s identified on April 26 and officially confirmed on May 1.
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Community Observes Vigils and Services
In response to the tragedy, the USF community has organized numerous tributes and services to honor the students. A solemn vigil was held on Friday afternoon at Crescent Hill, where students, faculty, and administrators gathered to place flowers and remember Bristy and Limon. USF Athletics also observed moments of silence and featured tributes on video boards before home softball and baseball games.
The Islamic Society of Tampa Bay Area (ISTABA) is scheduled to hold a prayer service, Salat-ul-Janaza, for Nahida Bristy on Wednesday, May 6, at 2 p.m. at its Tampa Mosque.
Posthumous Recognition and Support
USF leadership has stated plans to honor Bristy and Limon with posthumous degrees. The university's doctoral degree ceremony on May 8 will include two empty chairs with regalia on the arena floor to commemorate their lives and impact. University officials and trained professionals have been actively engaging with students, faculty, and staff to ensure support is available for those affected by the loss.
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Background of the Deceased
Both Nahida Bristy and Zamil Limon were international students from Bangladesh. They were last seen alive on April 16. Friends have described them as kind individuals. Limon’s lab mates were among the last to see him the night before his disappearance. Some reports indicate that Bristy and Limon were considering marriage. Their remains are being sent overseas to their respective families.
