Homicide Ruling in Death of Refugee Left by Border Patrol

Authorities investigating Border Patrol's role after man died from exposure outside donut shop

Apr. 2, 2026 at 11:30am

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The death of a nearly blind Rohingya refugee who was left by Border Patrol agents outside a closed donut shop on a freezing night in Buffalo has been ruled a homicide by the local medical examiner. Nurul Amin Shah Alam died from hypothermia and dehydration after being dropped off miles from his home, with no notification given to his family. The homicide ruling could lead to criminal charges, though officials say it speaks to the manner of death, not legal intent.

Why it matters

The death of Shah Alam, who fled genocide in Myanmar, has drawn outrage and sparked investigations into the actions of Border Patrol. Advocates argue the agents acted with cruelty and inhumanity in leaving a visually impaired, non-English speaking man in freezing conditions, raising questions about the treatment of vulnerable immigrants and refugees in custody.

The details

According to authorities, Shah Alam died from a perforated ulcer exacerbated by hypothermia and dehydration after Border Patrol agents left him outside a closed Tim Hortons in Buffalo on a freezing night in February. He was found dead five days later on a city street, miles from his home. The medical examiner ruled his death a homicide, indicating it resulted from someone else's action or inaction.

  • Shah Alam was released by Border Patrol agents in February 2026.
  • He was found dead five days later on a city street in Buffalo.

The players

Nurul Amin Shah Alam

A Rohingya refugee who died after being left by Border Patrol agents outside a closed donut shop in Buffalo. He was nearly blind, had trouble walking, and spoke no English.

Gale Burstein

The Erie County health commissioner who said Shah Alam's condition of hypothermia and dehydration leading to a perforated ulcer was a 'medical emergency' that would have caused 'severe pain'.

Letitia James

The New York Attorney General who is investigating the Border Patrol's actions in this case.

Kathy Hochul

The Governor of New York who condemned the Border Patrol's actions as 'cruel and inhumane' and said everyone involved 'must be held fully accountable'.

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What they’re saying

“Everyone involved in this incident must be held fully accountable.”

— Kathy Hochul, Governor of New York

What’s next

The New York Attorney General and Erie County district attorney are continuing their investigations into the Border Patrol's role in this incident.

The takeaway

This tragic death highlights the need for greater oversight and accountability in the treatment of vulnerable immigrants and refugees by law enforcement, as well as the importance of providing adequate support and resources to those in crisis.