USF Murder Case: Former Student Charged After Remains Found in Tampa, Second Victim Still Missing

A former University of South Florida student has been charged in a double murder case after authorities found the remains of one victim near a major Tampa bridge, while a second victim is still missing, officials said.

Hisham Abugharbieh, 26, is accused in the deaths of USF doctoral students Zamil Limon and Nahida Bristy, both 27, according to the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office. The case has drawn attention as investigators revealed new details about the timeline and evidence leading to his arrest.

Authorities said Abugharbieh searched online for ways to dispose of a body days before the two students disappeared. Investigators allege he used ChatGPT on April 13 to ask about disposing of a body in a trash bag and dumpster.

Limon, who lived with Abugharbieh, and Bristy were last seen alive on April 16. The following day, a roommate reported seeing him moving boxes to a compactor dumpster at their apartment complex, according to court records.

Investigators later recovered Limon’s personal belongings, including his student ID, credit cards, and clothing containing his DNA, from the dumpster. A kitchen mat linked to Bristy was also found. Prosecutors allege Abugharbieh bought cleaning supplies and trash bags the night the students disappeared and discarded additional items, including Bristy’s cellphone cover.

Limon’s remains were discovered Friday in a heavy-duty trash bag near the Howard Frankland Bridge. An autopsy determined he died from multiple sharp force injuries. During the ongoing search for Bristy, human remains were found Sunday, but authorities said they have not yet been identified.

Abugharbieh was arrested Friday after a brief standoff and is being held without bond at the Falkenburg Road Jail. He faces additional charges including battery, false imprisonment, failure to report a death, improper storage of human remains, and tampering with evidence. A court hearing is scheduled for Tuesday as the investigation continues.