Erie County provides statement regarding the Medical Examiner’s Office investigation on the death of Nurul Amin Shah Alam

The Erie County Department of Health (ECDOH) recognizes the heightened public interest in the Medical Examiner's (ME) investigation of the death of Nurul Amin Shah Alam, an Erie County resident who was found dead in the city of Buffalo on February 24, 2026.

The Erie County ME's Office made a final determination of cause and manner of death on March 31, 2026. Contact with Mr. Alam's family was made April 1, 2026 to share this update. This release of information follows the ME's Office process for notifying next of kin.

The Erie County ME's Office determined that in this case, the cause of death was complications of a perforated duodenal ulcer precipitated by hypothermia and dehydration, and the manner of death was homicide.

The cause of death refers to the disease or injury that initiates the lethal sequence of events. The manner of death describes the circumstances of a death, or how the cause came about. For death certification purposes, "homicide" refers to death resulting from the volitional act of another, which may include negligent acts or omissions. The designation of homicide does not imply intent to cause harm or death. Manner of death determinations are neutral, non-legal, and exist for vital statistical purposes, only. They do not indicate criminality, which is the purview of the judicial system.

The Erie County ME's office determination is an evidence-based medical conclusion made by a board-certified pathologist, informed by a physical examination, laboratory testing, and review of all available medical and investigative materials. With respect for Mr. Alam's family's privacy and in accordance with state law, our department will not be offering any further information to the public.