USF mourns slain Bangladeshi doctoral students after remains identified in Tampa murder case

University of South Florida (USF) students and faculty gathered Friday for a candlelight vigil after authorities identified remains found near Tampa Bay as missing doctoral student Nahida Bristy, days after fellow Bangladeshi doctoral student Zamil Limon was found dead near the Howard Frankland Bridge. Prosecutors have charged former USF student Hisham Saleh Abugharbieh with killing both students.

Bristy and Limon were last seen April 16 in Tampa before relatives and friends reported losing contact with them. Authorities identified Bristy’s remains through DNA analysis, dental records and clothing after investigators recovered plastic bags near mangroves along Tampa Bay on April 26. Detectives said a kayaker contacted authorities after a fishing line became caught near the shoreline.

Limon’s body had been recovered days earlier near the Howard Frankland Bridge. According to court records, his body was wrapped in black plastic bags and showed signs of multiple stab wounds and restraints.

Prosecutors charged Abugharbieh, 26, with two counts of first-degree premeditated murder as well as false imprisonment, evidence tampering and improper handling of human remains. Investigators identified him as Limon’s former roommate and a former USF student, saying detectives also recovered alleged internet searches related to body disposal and records showing he purchased cleaning supplies after the students disappeared.

Students, faculty members and community residents gathered at Crescent Hill near the Marshall Student Center to honor Bristy and Limon during the Friday vigil. Attendees placed flowers, candles and handwritten notes beside framed photographs of the two doctoral students while members of the Bangladesh Student Association joined memorial tributes throughout the evening.

“We will continue to honor Nahida and Zamil with the dignity and compassion they deserve,” USF President Moez Limayem said in a statement. He announced that Bristy and Limon are set to receive posthumous doctoral degrees during this week’s spring commencement ceremonies.

Two empty chairs with doctoral regalia will be placed on the arena floor during Friday morning’s doctoral commencement ceremony. University officials pledged to continue working with representatives from the Bangladeshi Embassy and Consulate General to assist their families.