Blind Refugee Abandoned by 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 border patrol agents. Nurul Amin Shah Alam, 56, was found deceased after being missing since February 19, when he was dropped off by border patrol following his release from the Erie County holding center.
Investigation Underway into Circumstances of Release
A spokesperson for Buffalo city hall, Ian Ott, stated that homicide detectives are actively investigating the events leading up to Shah Alam's death. The investigation focuses on the timeframe and conditions surrounding his release from custody. Shah Alam had been held at the Erie County facility for approximately one year prior to his release.
His arrest in 2025 by Buffalo police stemmed from an incident where he became lost during a walk and ended up on a woman's porch. According to his attorney, Shah Alam was using a curtain rod as a walking stick due to his visual impairment. When police responded to the woman's call and Shah Alam did not comply with commands to drop the rod, officers tasered and physically subdued him.
Border Patrol's Actions Under Scrutiny
Following his release on bail, Shah Alam was transferred to border patrol custody. Agents subsequently dropped him off at a Tim Hortons location approximately five miles from his home. Critically, neither his attorney nor his family members were notified of his release, leaving him without support in an unfamiliar area.
The Legal Aid Bureau of Buffalo expressed profound sadness in a statement, confirming Shah Alam's death and noting they have received numerous inquiries about the case. Due to ethical obligations, the organization declined to provide further comment at this time.
Lack of Official Response Raises Concerns
Michael Niezgoda, a spokesperson for US Customs and Border Protection, did not immediately respond to requests for comment regarding the incident. This silence has heightened concerns about accountability and transparency in border patrol operations.
Shah Alam arrived in Buffalo in December 2024, just fifteen months before his death. He is survived by his wife and two sons, who now mourn his loss amid unanswered questions about the circumstances that led to his abandonment and subsequent death.
The case highlights significant issues within the US immigration system, particularly regarding the treatment of vulnerable individuals with disabilities. As the investigation continues, advocates call for thorough scrutiny of border patrol protocols and improved communication with families and legal representatives during release procedures.
