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Missing USF doctoral students vanish under suspicious circumstances

Apr 22, 2026, 2:28 PM30
(Update: Apr 24, 2026, 8:24 PM)
public university in Tampa, Florida, United States

Missing USF doctoral students vanish under suspicious circumstances

  • Zamil Limon and Nahida Bristy were last seen on April 16, 2026, in Tampa.
  • Both students left personal belongings behind, raising alarms among family and friends.
  • Authorities are seeking public help and have requested the FBI's involvement in the case.
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In the United States, two doctoral students from the University of South Florida, Zamil Limon and Nahida Bristy, both 27 years old, were reported missing on April 16, 2026. Limon, who is pursuing a degree in geography, environmental science, and policy, was last seen in his Tampa residence around 9 a.m. on that day, while Bristy, studying chemical engineering, was last seen on the university campus. Their sudden disappearance has raised concerns among family and friends, as both individuals are described as responsible and punctual, making it unusual for them to go off the grid without contacting loved ones. The events surrounding their disappearance unfolded after a family friend reported that they were unable to reach either student by April 17, prompting the university police department to issue missing person reports. Family members emphasized that it is out of character for Limon and Bristy to not maintain communication, especially considering their close ties to family back in Bangladesh, from where both students hail. The lack of contact became alarming as it coincided with the revelation that both individuals had left personal belongings behind, including Bristy's laptop and iPad in a university lab. Investigators have noted that Limon's phone was traced to his apartment shortly after his last known sighting, while Bristy’s last known location was recorded later that afternoon around 5 p.m. at the campus. The police have requested public assistance in locating the missing students, and the Bangladeshi Embassy has reached out to involve the FBI in the case. Family members have stated that both students were serious about their academic pursuits and were even considering a future together, but they were not making any serious plans to the extent of disappearing altogether. As the search continues, family members have expressed their profound anxiety and concern for the safety of Zamil Limon and Nahida Bristy. They have called for anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of the students to come forward and assist law enforcement in their investigations. The case remains a priority for local authorities as they strive to bring clarity to this troubling situation and discover what led to the unexpected disappearance of these two dedicated scholars.

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