University at Buffalo graduate detained by ICE in Texas after engineering competition

BUFFALO, N.Y. — A recent University at Buffalo graduate was detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents in Texas after traveling for a student engineering competition.

The reason for his detention remains unclear, university officials told 2 On Your Side.

Nadir Hassan had traveled to El Paso, Texas, with classmates to compete in the American Society of Civil Engineers student steel bridge competition. After the event, Hassan planned to return to his home in the New York City area.

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Family and friends told university officials that Hassan “was detained by ice agents before boarding his flight. The reason for his detainment is unknown,” the UB spokesperson said.

UB has provided letters of support from faculty, classmates, and student organizations while attempting to learn more about his case.

Hassan earned a Bachelor’s degree in environmental design earlier this month, and had a minor in architecture. The Jericho (N.Y.) High School graduate started attending classes at UB in the fall 2022 semester.