Brother of Suspect in USF Students' Deaths Expresses Family's Regret
The brother of the suspect in the deaths of two University of South Florida doctoral students reveals prior warnings to police about his sibling's behavior and conveys the family's remorse.
The family of Hisham Abugharbieh, the 26-year-old suspect charged with the murders of University of South Florida doctoral students Zamil Limon and Nahida Bristy, had previously alerted authorities to his erratic behavior. Ahmad Abugharbieh, Hisham's younger brother, stated that the family had contacted police on multiple occasions due to concerns over Hisham's quick temper and unpredictable actions.
"We tried to warn police in the past," Ahmad Abugharbieh said.
He also expressed that his brother should not have been living with roommates, suggesting that Hisham should have lived alone or been homeless.
Hisham Abugharbieh faces two counts of first-degree premeditated murder in connection with the deaths of his roommate, 27-year-old Zamil Limon, and Limon's friend, 27-year-old Nahida Bristy. Limon's body was discovered near the Howard Frankland Bridge, while human remains believed to be Bristy's were found nearby, though official identification is pending.
The Abugharbieh family had filed two protective orders against Hisham in recent years. A 2023 order was granted after Ahmad reported that Hisham had physically assaulted him, causing injuries. A subsequent 2025 request was denied due to the absence of pursued criminal charges.
Ahmad Abugharbieh conveyed deep remorse to the victims' families, stating that the entire family feels immense shame and guilt over the incident.
Hisham Abugharbieh is currently held without bond and is scheduled for a court appearance on Tuesday.