TAMPA, Fla. — Murder charges have been filed against the roommate of a University of South Florida doctoral student who disappeared alongside his girlfriend earlier this month. Hisham Abugharbieh, 26, is facing two counts of first-degree murder connected to the deaths of Zamil Limon and Nahida Bristy, both USF students, according to local authorities.
On Friday morning, Limon's remains were discovered on the Howard Frankland Bridge, while Bristy remains missing. The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office reported that Abugharbieh was apprehended at his family’s home after a report of domestic violence.
Initially arrested on preliminary charges including unlawfully moving a dead body and tampering with evidence, he later faced more severe charges when the remains were identified. Reports indicate he exited the family home, where he had barricaded himself, clad only in a blue towel, assisted by a SWAT team and negotiators.
Limon and Bristy, both 27, were last seen on April 16, considering marriage according to relatives. The last confirmed sighting of Limon was at their shared apartment, while Bristy was last seen an hour later on campus. An autopsy is being conducted to clarify the cause of Limon’s death, with results anticipated soon.
Abugharbieh’s history includes several previous arrests for misdemeanors, including battery, and at least two domestic violence petitions filed by family members. The ongoing search for Bristy is imperative, and authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward.
