Human remains discovered in Tampa Bay have been identified as those of Nahida Bristy, a missing University of South Florida doctoral student, according to the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office. Bristy, 24, was last seen on April 27, 2026, and her disappearance prompted a search by law enforcement.
The remains were found on May 8, 2026, in the waters near the Gandy Bridge area. The sheriff's office confirmed the identification through dental records. Bristy was a native of Bangladesh and was pursuing a PhD in chemistry at USF.
Authorities have not released a cause of death, and the investigation is ongoing. No arrests have been made. The sheriff's office stated that foul play is not suspected at this time, but the case remains open.
Bristy's death is the second such incident involving a USF doctoral student in recent months. In March 2026, another student was reported missing and later found deceased. The university has offered counseling services to students and staff affected by these tragedies.
