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Refugee Found Dead After Border Patrol Release Ruled Homicide
Authorities say Nurul Amin Shah Alam's death was caused by complications from a perforated ulcer due to hypothermia and dehydration.
Apr. 1, 2026 at 8:52pm
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The manner of death of a nearly blind refugee who did not speak English and was found dead in February in New York state days after being left outside a coffee shop by Customs and Border Protection officers has been determined to be homicide, a state medical examiner's office said. Nurul Amin Shah Alam's cause of death was 'complications of a perforated ulcer precipitated by hypothermia and dehydration,' according to Erie County officials.
Why it matters
The death of Shah Alam, a Rohingya refugee from Myanmar, has caused alarm among New York state officials and advocates who criticized CBP for leaving him outside a coffee shop that was closed at the time. The homicide ruling raises questions about the agency's treatment and handling of vulnerable immigrants.
The details
According to officials, Shah Alam experienced 'severe stress' from 'hypothermia, being in very cold temperatures, and dehydration' after being released by CBP. The medical examiner's office said the designation of homicide 'does not imply intent to cause harm or death' and 'does not indicate criminality.' However, Buffalo's mayor called the death 'preventable' and 'a dereliction of duty by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection.'
- On February 19, the Buffalo Police Department alerted Border Patrol about Shah Alam, a noncitizen in their custody.
- In late February, Shah Alam was found dead days after being left outside a coffee shop by CBP officers.
The players
Nurul Amin Shah Alam
A nearly blind refugee from Myanmar who did not speak English and was found dead in New York state days after being released by Customs and Border Protection officers.
Mark Poloncarz
Erie County Executive who announced the medical examiner's findings on Shah Alam's death.
Gale Burstein
Erie County Commissioner of Health who provided details on the cause of Shah Alam's death.
Letitia James
New York Attorney General who said Shah Alam 'fled genocide to build a life in this country' and that 'no New Yorker should be treated this way.'
Sean Ryan
Buffalo Mayor who called Shah Alam's death 'preventable' and 'a dereliction of duty by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection.'
What they’re saying
“Nobody told me or my family or attorney where my dad was dropped off.”
— Mohamad Faisal, One of Shah Alam's children
“The death of a loved one is never easy and the national and international attention focused on Mr. Alam, his life and his death are an added burden to this family, and my thoughts are with them, especially today.”
— Gale Burstein, Erie County Commissioner of Health
What’s next
The Department of Homeland Security did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the medical examiner's findings. New York Attorney General Letitia James said her office is continuing to review the circumstances and treatment that led to Shah Alam's death.
The takeaway
This tragic case highlights concerns about the treatment of vulnerable immigrants by federal authorities and the potential consequences of leaving individuals in unsafe situations, even if unintentional. It underscores the need for greater oversight and accountability in immigration enforcement practices.
