Blind refugee found dead in New York after being released by immigration authorities

February 28, 2026

A 56-year-old nearly-blind refugee from Myanmar who spoke no English died in upstate New York after US Customs and Border Protection released him at a coffee shop in freezing temperatures. Nurul Amin Shah Alam was dropped off at the location without his family being notified, after spending nearly a year in custody on charges stemming from a misunderstanding with police involving a curtain rod he used as a walking stick. Federal authorities released him because, having entered the US legally as a refugee, he could not be deported, but his body was found days later approximately six miles from the drop-off point.

Who is affected

Nurul Amin Shah Alam (deceased refugee from Myanmar)
Shah Alam's family, including his son Mohamad Faisal and other children
Arakan Rohingya refugee community
Two Buffalo police officers who were injured in the initial incident
Buffalo residents and local officials

What action is being taken

The Buffalo Police Department is investigating Shah Alam's death
New York Attorney General Letitia James's office is reviewing legal options
Federal Department of Homeland Security has responded to the incident with their account of events

Why it matters

This case highlights critical gaps in federal immigration protocols for handling vulnerable populations, including those with disabilities, language barriers, and special needs. It raises serious questions about inter-agency communication, family notification procedures, and the duty of care owed to refugees who entered the country legally. The death of someone who fled genocide only to die alone in freezing temperatures after being released without proper support underscores systemic failures in protecting some of society's most vulnerable members.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: BBC