Story perspectives

Refugee's Homicide: Death Linked to Border Patrol's Actions

4/1/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Erie County Medical Examiner’s Office ruled the death of Nurul Amin Shah Alam, a nearly blind refugee from Myanmar, a homicide.
He was found dead on February 24, 2023, five days after Border Patrol agents left him at a closed Tim Hortons in Buffalo, New York.
His death resulted from complications related to a perforated duodenal ulcer, linked to hypothermia and dehydration.
Shah Alam's family was not notified of his release from jail, and he was reported missing by his lawyer.

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Story summary

The Erie County Medical Examiner’s Office ruled the death of Nurul Amin Shah Alam, a nearly blind refugee from Myanmar, a homicide.
He was found dead on February 24, 2023, five days after Border Patrol agents left him at a closed Tim Hortons in Buffalo, New York.
His death resulted from complications related to a perforated duodenal ulcer, linked to hypothermia and dehydration.
Shah Alam's family was not notified of his release from jail, and he was reported missing by his lawyer.