Two doctoral candidates from the University of South Florida (USF) have been missing since mid-April in Tampa, sparking growing concern among authorities and the academic community due to the absence of clear leads regarding their whereabouts.
Zamil Limon and Nahida S. Bristy, both 27 and originally from Bangladesh, were last seen within just an hour of each other.
Since their disappearance, there has been no contact with family or peers, prompting a joint search operation by the university police and the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office.
Last Known Movements
According to local media reports, Limon was last seen around 9:00 a.m. on April 16 at his student residence on Avalon Heights Boulevard, while Bristy was seen near 10:00 a.m. at the campus's Natural and Environmental Sciences building.
A family friend reported their disappearance on April 17 after failing to reach them, leading to official investigations and their inclusion in state and national missing persons databases.
Lack of Clues and Concerns
Authorities have confirmed there is no evidence that the students are in the custody of the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)
No signs of violence, prior threats, or personal or academic conflicts have emerged to explain their disappearance. "It's not typical behavior for them; they're graduate students," stated Larry McKinnon, public information officer for USF Public Safety. "At this time, we have no information indicating any crime or suspicious activity," he added. However, the fact that both their phones are off, with no social media activity or bank movements since the day they vanished, heightens the mystery surrounding the case. Investigators highlight that Limon and Bristy were close friends and possibly in a romantic relationship. "It's believed they are together," police sources indicated, although there is no conclusive evidence about their location. Both students were known for their academic dedication. Limon is pursuing a Ph.D. in geography, environmental sciences, and public policy, while Bristy is studying chemical engineering. According to their families, it's unusual for them to miss classes or remain out of touch for several days. "He is very responsible and punctual, which makes this situation unpredictable and unusual for us... and very suspicious," stated Zubaer Ahmed, Limon's younger brother. The family member also revealed that the two students had discussed a possible future together. "We are suffering tremendously and going through a devastating situation," he expressed. In light of the lack of progress, authorities have requested public assistance to gather any information that could shed light on what happened. "When we reach this point and cannot locate them, our best option is the public," McKinnon noted. "That's where we are at." Authorities urge anyone with information to contact the University of South Florida Police Department at (813) 974-2628. "We all hope for a positive outcome. That's why we take this very seriously and ensure no stone is left unturned in our efforts to find a resolution," McKinnon concluded. Zamil Limon was last seen at his student residence on Avalon Heights Boulevard, and Nahida S. Bristy was last seen near the Natural and Environmental Sciences building on the USF campus. Authorities have found no signs of violence, threats, or personal conflicts that would explain their disappearance. There is no evidence suggesting foul play at this time. There is no evidence that the students are in the custody of ICE or any other agency, alleviating initial concerns from their families about such a scenario.Close Relationship and Simultaneous Disappearance
Urgent Appeal to the Public
Frequently Asked Questions about the Missing USF Students
What are the last known locations of Zamil Limon and Nahida S. Bristy?
Are there any indications of foul play in their disappearance?
Have the students been located by ICE or any other agency?