Two Bangladeshi Students Found Murdered in Florida; Roommate Held in Custody
Two Bangladeshi graduate students, Zamil Ahmed Limon and Nahida Sultana Bristy, were found murdered in Florida, prompting the arrest of their roommate, Hisham Saleh Abugharbieh, Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister said. Limon's body was discovered inside a trash bag on the shoulder of the Howard Frankland Bridge, while Bristy's remains were found in Tampa Bay by a kayaker; both bodies had been sent to Bangladesh for burial.
Investigators linked Abugharbieh to the killings after finding bloodstains in his apartment and car using Bluestar forensic technology, including a human-sized blood outline behind his bed. Detectives also recovered Limon's personal items—glasses, ID, wallet, and clothing—soaked in blood from a trash compactor, following a tip that Abugharbieh had moved belongings there on the night of April 16–17.
Forensic analysis of Abugharbieh's phone revealed searches including 'Can a knife penetrate a skull?' and 'Can a neighbor hear a gunshot?' days before the disappearances. He had also ordered heavy-duty contractor bags, cleaning supplies, and ignition materials via Amazon and DoorDash, indicating preparation, authorities said.
Abugharbieh sustained unexplained lacerations on his hand and arm, which detectives believe were defensive wounds. He has not disclosed a motive since his arrest and remains in custody as the investigation continues.
The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office is awaiting further forensic results and has not ruled out additional charges; the court is expected to schedule a preliminary hearing within the coming week.