Blind Refugee Abandoned by US Border Patrol Found Dead in Buffalo
City officials in Buffalo, New York, have confirmed the tragic death of a nearly blind Burmese refugee who was abandoned by US Border Patrol agents. The case has sparked an investigation into the circumstances surrounding his release and subsequent demise.
Details of the Case
Nurul Amin Shah Alam, aged 56, had been missing since February 19th. According to reports from the Investigative Post, he was dropped off by border patrol following his release from the Erie County Holding Center. A spokesperson for Buffalo City Hall, Ian Ott, stated that homicide detectives are actively investigating the events leading up to his death after his custody release.
Shah Alam had been detained in the Erie County facility for approximately one year, following an arrest by Buffalo police in 2025. He faced charges of assault, trespassing, and possession of a weapon. His attorney explained that the incident occurred when Shah Alam, who was nearly blind, became lost during a walk and ended up on a woman's porch. He was using a curtain rod as a walking stick at the time.
Police Response and Custody Transfer
When the woman called the police, Shah Alam did not comply with commands to drop the curtain rod, leading officers to taser and beat him, as detailed by his legal representative. After being released on bail, he was transferred into the custody of US Border Patrol agents.
Border patrol agents then abandoned him at a Tim Hortons location approximately five miles from his residence. Critically, neither his attorney nor his family members were notified of his release, leaving him vulnerable and without support.
Reactions and Investigation
The Legal Aid Bureau of Buffalo issued a statement expressing sadness over Shah Alam's death, noting they have received numerous inquiries but are constrained by ethical obligations from commenting further. Michael Niezgoda, a spokesperson for US Customs and Border Protection, did not respond immediately to requests for comment from the Guardian.
Shah Alam had arrived in Buffalo 15 months prior, in December 2024, and is survived by his wife and two sons. The investigation continues as authorities seek to understand the full timeline and responsibilities in this distressing case.
