Investigation Demands Rise After Rohingya Refugee's Death in Buffalo

The death of Nurul Amin Shah Alam, a nearly blind Rohingya refugee from Myanmar, has sparked significant controversy and calls for investigation into the actions of U.S. Border Patrol agents. Shah Alam was found dead in downtown Buffalo days after being released by Border Patrol agents, who had dropped him off outside a closed Tim Hortons coffee shop, approximately five miles from his current residence. This incident has raised questions about the adequacy of care provided to vulnerable individuals by immigration enforcement agencies.

NewsweekLeaders call for Border Patrol probe following Shah Alam death

Shah Alam, 56, was detained by Border Patrol on February 19, 2026, after being released from the Erie County Holding Center. Following his release, Border Patrol agents determined that he was not eligible for deportation and offered him a ride to a coffee shop, which they claimed was a "warm, safe location." Surveillance footage later contradicted this assertion, showing Shah Alam being left outside a closed establishment. He was reported missing by his family on February 22, after they were unaware of his release. His body was discovered on February 26, after a passerby called 911.

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The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) defended its agents, stating that Shah Alam showed no signs of distress or mobility issues before being dropped off. However, local officials and lawmakers have expressed outrage. New York Attorney General Letitia James emphasized the need for accountability, stating, “No one who comes here seeking refuge should be left in harm’s way.” Buffalo Mayor Sean Ryan described the incident as a "dereliction of duty" by Border Patrol, asserting that Shah Alam was left alone in dangerous conditions.

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Critics, including local lawmakers and immigration advocates, have condemned the actions of Border Patrol agents. Representative Timothy Kennedy called for a "full, transparent, and independent investigation," while Buffalo Mayor Sean Ryan criticized the decision to leave Shah Alam without assistance. Advocacy groups have highlighted the systemic failures that contributed to Shah Alam's death, arguing that he should have been provided with resources to contact family or community members.

Leaders call for Border Patrol probe following Shah Alam death

While the Erie County Medical Examiner initially ruled Shah Alam's death as "health-related," the Erie County Department of Health disputed this conclusion, indicating that no determination had been made. This discrepancy reflects the broader uncertainty surrounding the circumstances of Shah Alam's death and the actions of law enforcement agencies involved.

Newsweek

Calls for investigations into the actions of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Erie County Sheriff’s Office are growing. Attorney General Letitia James has stated that her office is reviewing legal options, and local officials are preparing to demand accountability from federal agencies. The outcome of these investigations may have significant implications for immigration enforcement practices and the treatment of vulnerable populations in the U.S.

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• “DHS LEFT A MAN TO DIE AND LIED,” — Homeland Security Democrats

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• “My heart breaks for Nurul Amin Shah Alam’s family. He should be alive — and this should have never happened. Alam’s family deserves answers from ICE and CBP and we must have an immediate independent investigation.” — U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer

Leaders call for Border Patrol probe following Shah Alam death

• “No one who comes here seeking refuge should be left in harm’s way.” — New York Attorney General Letitia James

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