Bangladeshi student Limon had discussed marrying Bristy before their deaths in US, family says
The tragic end to their aspirations was confirmed on 25 April when Limon’s body was recovered in a mutilated condition from the Howard Frankland Bridge
The families of two Bangladeshi PhD students at the University of South Florida are mourning a double tragedy following confirmation that both have died under "deeply disturbing" circumstances.
Amid the grim discovery of Zamil Limon's remains and the reported death of Nahida Sultana Bristy, touching information has emerged of a couple who were planning to build a life together, reports CNN.
Limon's brother, Zubaer Ahmed, revealed that the 27-year-old doctoral student had spoken highly of Bristy to his family in Bangladesh, confirming that the pair were courting and had actively discussed the possibility of marriage.
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Describing Bristy as a "good girl" with immense talent, Limon told his family of her ability to sing and her skill in cooking.
The couple, both described by peers as promising scholars, had been last seen together on 16 April before their disappearance sparked a massive search in Tampa, Florida.
The tragic end to their aspirations was confirmed on 25 April when Limon's body was recovered in a mutilated condition from the Howard Frankland Bridge.
While US police have yet to officially confirm the recovery of Bristy's remains, a family member, Zahid Hasan Pranto, shared the heartbreaking news on social media, stating that his sister was no longer with them.
Limon was a researcher in geography and environment, while Bristy was pursuing her doctorate in chemical engineering.
Authorities have arrested Limon's roommate, 26-year-old Hisham Saleh Abugharbeih, in connection with the case.
Abugharbeih was taken into custody following a tense standoff with a tactical team of the local law enforcement agency and crisis negotiators at his family's home.
He currently faces preliminary charges of unlawfully moving a dead body, failure to report a death, and tampering with evidence, reports CNN.
Investigators noted that the suspect has a prior criminal record, including arrests for battery and domestic violence in 2023.
Dreams cut short
For Limon, the future held clear professional goals alongside his plans for a family.
He had spent the last two years using generative AI to monitor shrinking wetlands in South Florida for his thesis. His brother described him as a "very decent and simple person" who always wore a smile.
Upon completing his PhD, Limon intended to return to Bangladesh to serve as a university professor – a dream that, like his planned marriage to Bristy, has been tragically cut short.
Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister stated that detectives are working relentlessly to uncover the truth and hold those responsible fully accountable.
An autopsy is being conducted to determine the exact cause and manner of Limon's death, with further results expected shortly.
