New York State Attorney General Letitia James says her office cannot file any criminal charges in connection with the death of blind refugee Nurul Amin Shah Alam in Buffalo this past February.
Shah Alam was released by federal agents in a Tim Hortons parking lot on Niagara Street earlier this year, and was found dead days later downtown near KeyBank Center.
The Erie County Medical Examiner’s Office ruled Shah Alam’s death a homicide. Ruling a death a homicide means it resulted from another person’s actions — or inaction — but doesn’t necessarily mean that a crime was committed.
While the state AG cannot pursue charges, James’ office says Erie County District Attorney Michael Keane can.
In a statement, Keane says the investigation into the case is still ongoing:
“The New York State Attorney General’s Office has notified District Attorney Keane of their determination. At this time, our investigation into the death of Nurul Amin Shah Alam remains ongoing. We understand the public interest in this case and will provide an update at the appropriate time.”
A spokesperson for U.S. Customs and Border Protection also released a statement, saying:
“On February 19, 2026, the Erie County Sheriff’s Office, Erie County Holding Center, contacted the U.S. Border Patrol about an alien—Mr. Shah Alam—in their custody. Border Patrol agents confirmed that Mr. Shah Alam entered the United States as a refugee and that he was not amenable to removal. Border Patrol agents then offered him a courtesy ride, which he chose to accept rather than be released directly from the Border Patrol station, and he was dropped off at a location near several businesses, determined to be a warm, safe location near his last known address. He showed no signs of distress, mobility issues, or disabilities requiring special assistance.”