Nearly Blind Refugee's Death Ruled a Homicide After Border Patrol Left Him in the Cold
”I want answers. I expect justice for his family,” New York Governor Kathy Hochul said.
Published April 2 2026, 6:43 a.m. ET
Border Patrol Under Fire Over Nearly Blind Refugee's Death
Nurul Amin Shah Alam, a nearly blind Rohingya refugee from Myanmar, died in the city of Buffalo on Feb. 24, 2026. His death happened days after Border Patrol agents left him on the streets in freezing temperatures. On Wednesday, April 1, the Erie County Medical Examiner’s Office concluded that the death of Nurul was a homicide.
In their report, the office specified that Nurul passed away from "complications of a perforated duodenal ulcer precipitated by hypothermia and dehydration, and the manner of death was homicide."
Border Patrol Agents (Image for representative purpose)
In its official statement, it also clarified that the manner of his death refers to the circumstances surrounding his passing. In this case, "homicide refers to death resulting from the volitional act of another, which may include negligent acts or omissions. The designation of homicide does not imply intent to cause harm or death."
Democrats Demand Answers After Rohingya Refugee's Death Is Ruled Homicide
Erie County Health Commissioner Gale Burstein revealed that Nurul developed a stress ulcer, caused by dehydration and exposure to the freezing cold. The ulcer harmed his intestinal wall. Burstein said that he was in extreme pain and in need of immediate medical attention.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the Border Patrol's parent agency, repudiated responsibility in a social media post in February. It said, "This death had nothing to do with Border Patrol. Mr. Shah Alam passed almost a week after he was released by Border Patrol — he also had a serial violent criminal rap sheet."
The Department of Homeland Security defends Border Patrol Agents in a post on X.
In its statement, the agency further highlighted Nurul’s extended criminal history. “Mr. Shah Alam’s criminal history included charges for assaulting a first responder with intent to cause injury, criminal possession of a weapon, menacing with a weapon, resisting arrest, criminal trespass, and obstructing governmental administration.”
Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz, a Democrat, said at a news conference on Wednesday, April 1, that the incident was unfortunate and "should not have happened." However, he remained reticent when asked whether the Border Patrol was responsible for Nurul's death.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul speaks about the 'inhumane killing of Nurul Amin Shah Alam.'
Erie County District Attorney Mike Keane assured that his office has requested Nurul's full autopsy report. Keane and State Attorney General Letitia James, both Democrats, stated that their offices are investigating the case further.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection noted in their statement on Wednesday, April 1, that Nurul “showed no signs of distress, mobility issues, or disabilities requiring special assistance” when Border Patrol agents dropped him off at a fast-food joint on Feb. 19.
Nurul’s autopsy report is confidential under New York law. Governor Kathy Hochul, who is a Buffalo native herself, called out President Trump's DHS and also wished for everyone involved to be held accountable. "I want answers. I expect justice for his family,” she said.
New York Immigration Coalition President Murad Awawdeh released a similar statement, asking for a proper investigation into Shah Alam’s death.