Arabic version: إصدار الهجرة الأمريكية مرتبط بحكم القتل في قضية لاجئ
The death of Nurul Amin Shah Alam, a nearly blind refugee, has been ruled a homicide by the Erie County Medical Examiner’s Office in New York. Shah Alam was found outdoors in freezing temperatures five days after his release from federal immigration custody. The cause of death was identified as complications from a perforated duodenal ulcer, precipitated by hypothermia and dehydration. Local officials noted that the designation of homicide could involve negligent acts but does not imply intent to harm.
According to BBC News, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) responded to the ruling, stating that Shah Alam’s death was unrelated to their actions, asserting he died almost a week after being released. He was dropped off at a coffee shop after Border Patrol agents provided him with a courtesy ride to a location deemed safe.
Shah Alam, a Rohingya refugee from Myanmar, was described as vulnerable, being nearly blind and unable to communicate in English. Buffalo Mayor Sean Ryan expressed concern over the incident, while Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz stated that the death could have been prevented. New York Governor Kathy Hochul called for accountability from all individuals involved.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) claimed that Shah Alam showed no signs of distress when released. However, the circumstances surrounding his death have prompted investigations by both the Erie County District Attorney and the New York State Attorney General. The weather conditions in Buffalo at the time of his release were harsh, with temperatures dropping significantly before his body was discovered.
Shah Alam had been arrested in February 2025 after an incident that resulted in injuries to two police officers. His son explained that the arrest stemmed from a misunderstanding involving a walking stick, which led to his father’s confusion during the police encounter. Following his recent release from jail, Shah Alam was placed under a detainer by immigration authorities but was ultimately released after confirming his refugee status. His family was not informed of his drop-off location, leading to concerns over his safety and well-being.
