Blind Refugee Found Dead After Being Abandoned by Border Patrol

Nurul Amin Shah Alam, a 56-year-old Rohingya refugee, died after being left alone without shoes or a phone near a closed coffee shop in Buffalo, New York.

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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A blind Rohingya refugee named Nurul Amin Shah Alam was found dead in Buffalo, New York, five days after being abandoned by Border Patrol agents near a closed coffee shop. Alam, who spoke little English and had mobility issues, was released from the Erie County jail and dropped off without shoes or a phone to find his way home. His body was later discovered about four miles from the coffee shop where he was left.

Why it matters

This tragic incident has sparked outrage and raised concerns about the treatment of vulnerable immigrants and refugees by federal authorities. It has also renewed calls for immigration reform and better protocols to ensure the safety of those in custody.

The details

According to Buffalo Mayor Sean Ryan, Alam was wearing only the orange booties issued to inmates when he was left alone outside the closed Tim Hortons coffee shop. Alam, who was nearly blind and had mobility issues, had no way to contact his family or get home. His body was found five days later, about four miles from the coffee shop.

  • On February 19, Alam was reported missing after being released from the Erie County jail and abandoned by Border Patrol agents.
  • Alam's body was found five days later, on February 24.

The players

Nurul Amin Shah Alam

A 56-year-old Rohingya refugee who came to the United States legally to escape persecution in Myanmar. He was nearly blind, had mobility issues, and spoke little English.

Sean Ryan

The mayor of Buffalo, New York, who condemned the incident and called for action to prevent similar tragedies.

Kathy Hochul

The governor of New York, who expressed outrage over Alam's death and called for comprehensive immigration legislation to keep New Yorkers safe.

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What they’re saying

“A blind father was released from federal custody and left alone on the street to find his way home. He never made it back to his family.”

— Kathy Hochul, Governor of New York (Hudson Valley Post)

“No one should disappear at the hands of the government. New York will not look the other way. If Washington won't restore order and take action, New York will. We must act now and pass my comprehensive immigration legislation to keep New Yorkers safe.”

— Kathy Hochul, Governor of New York (Hudson Valley Post)

What’s next

New York Governor Kathy Hochul has vowed to take action and pass comprehensive immigration legislation to prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future.

The takeaway

This heartbreaking incident highlights the urgent need for reforms to ensure the humane treatment and safety of vulnerable immigrants and refugees in the custody of federal authorities. It serves as a call to action for policymakers to prioritize the protection of human rights and dignity, regardless of immigration status.