Buffalo Daily Local Headlines: Refugee death investigation, new tip app, and a final Canalside skate

Local Headlines

Buffalo, NY – February 27, 2026 – Refugee death case draws scrutiny, Canalside adds a final skate weekend, and Borderland Fest tickets go on sale.


Top story: Refugee death investigation

Buffalo officials are pressing for answers after Nurul Amin Shah Alam, a 56-year-old Rohingya refugee described as nearly blind and unable to speak English, was found dead downtown on Tuesday, Feb. 24. Authorities say he was released from custody on Feb. 19 and dropped off near a Tim Hortons in the Black Rock area, after federal agents determined he was not subject to removal.

City leaders have called the circumstances ‘deeply disturbing’ and say leaving a vulnerable person without confirmed support was unacceptable. The case is being investigated locally, while advocates and community members have been holding vigils and services for Shah Alam.

One point of confusion this week: the county health department said the medical examiner has not released a cause or manner of death, pushing back on earlier public statements that suggested the death was health-related and not due to exposure or homicide.

Public safety: New anonymous tip tool in Erie County

The Erie County Sheriff’s Office rolled out a new smartphone app, ErieCo Sheriff, aimed at making it easier to share information and receive alerts. Officials say tips can be submitted anonymously through the app, and residents without smartphones can text anonymous tips by sending the keyword ECSO and a message to 847411.

Weekend watch: Canalside reopens the ice (briefly)

If you thought skating season was over, you’ve got one more window. The Ice at Canalside is scheduled to reopen for a final weekend of public skating on Saturday, Feb. 28 and Sunday, March 1, with reduced admission and skate rentals priced at $5. Organizers note the ice will be open for skating only.

Events: Borderland Festival lineup lands

Looking ahead to late summer, organizers announced the 2026 Borderland Music + Arts Festival lineup for Knox Farm State Park in East Aurora, with the festival dates set for Sept. 18–20. Tickets were scheduled to move from presale on Feb. 26 to public on-sale at 10 a.m. Friday, Feb. 27.

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