In a chilling case that has shocked the University of South Florida community and the Bangladeshi diaspora, two promising 27-year-old doctoral students — Zamil Limon and his girlfriend Nahida Bristy — were allegedly murdered in cold blood by their own roommate. Authorities describe a crime scene soaked in horror: a massive pool of blood in the apartment, large enough to outline an entire human body curled in the fetal position.

Zamil Limon and Nahida Bristy, both originally from Bangladesh and pursuing advanced degrees at USF, were last seen alive on the morning of April 16, 2026. What began as a missing persons report quickly escalated into one of Tampa’s most disturbing homicide investigations. Limon’s body, bound at the wrists and ankles and stuffed into a black garbage bag, was discovered days later along the Howard Frankland Bridge. Multiple sharp-force injuries, including deep stab wounds, told a story of extreme violence. Just days after that, Bristy’s heavily decomposed remains were recovered from the nearby waters, also concealed in a similar trash bag.

Forensic teams using luminol at the shared apartment uncovered trails of blood leading from the entrance through the kitchen and into the suspect’s bedroom. The largest concentration formed a distinct outline the size of an adult body, suggesting one victim was attacked and left bleeding out on the floor. Experts note that such a volume of blood indicates the victims likely suffered prolonged and savage assaults before their bodies were methodically dismembered or concealed for disposal.

Hisham Saleh Abugharbieh, 26, Limon’s roommate and a former USF student, now faces two counts of first-degree premeditated murder with a weapon. Investigators allege the killings were calculated: digital evidence reportedly shows searches for ways to dispose of bodies, the penetrating power of knives, and other disturbing queries in the days leading up to the disappearances. Items belonging to the victims, including blood-stained clothing, a wallet, glasses, and a phone case, were later found in a nearby trash compactor.

Friends and family paint Limon and Bristy as bright, ambitious scholars deeply connected to their community. The pair had reportedly been considering marriage, adding a layer of personal tragedy to the loss. Their sudden disappearance left loved ones frantic, as both were known for daily contact with family back home.

The case has raised uncomfortable questions about roommate safety on college campuses, especially for international students far from home. Complaints about the suspect’s behavior had apparently surfaced earlier, yet the nightmare unfolded unchecked until it was too late.

As the investigation continues, authorities emphasize the premeditated nature of the crimes. The disposal of bodies in garbage bags tossed near a busy bridge and into Tampa Bay waters reflects a disturbing attempt to erase evidence. For the families, the grief is unimaginable — two young lives full of potential, extinguished in what prosecutors call a monstrous act of betrayal.

This double homicide serves as a stark reminder of how quickly safety can shatter behind closed doors. The USF community continues to mourn, holding vigils and calling for stronger protections, while the search for justice moves forward in the courts.