Roommate charged with killing 2 missing USF students; one found dead, search continues for second

TAMPA, Fla - The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office has upgraded charges against Hisham Abugharbieh in connection to the disappearance of two USF students.

What we know:

Investigators now say a case involving two missing University of South Florida students is a double murder investigation.

According to the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, 26-year-old Hisham Abugharbieh faces two counts of first-degree murder with a weapon (premeditated) in the deaths of Zamil Limon and Nahida Bristy. 

Officials say evidence presented to the State Attorney’s Office led to the upgraded charges.

Deputies confirmed they found Limon dead Friday morning on the Howard Frankland Bridge over Tampa Bay.

Bristy is still missing. As of Saturday morning, search crews continue looking for her, focusing on areas around the bridge.

Abugharbieh also faces additional charges, including tampering with evidence, false imprisonment, moving a dead body, failing to report a death and battery.

Deputies say they first encountered him while responding to a domestic violence call at a home near the USF campus. 

Investigators say he barricaded himself inside before eventually surrendering.

What we don't know:

Investigators have not released details about how the victims were killed or what led up to their deaths.

Authorities say they are withholding specific findings to protect the integrity of the investigation.

What's next:

The search for Bristy remains active.

Abugharbieh is expected to face a judge as the case moves forward.

Anyone with information about Bristy’s disappearance is urged to contact the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office at (813) 247-8200 or Crime Stoppers.