Baltimore, MD — The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has announced a significant increase in the reward for information leading to the arrest of Bhadreshkumar Chetanbhai Patel, one of the agency’s Ten Most Wanted Fugitives, offering up to $1 000 000 for information that could break an 11‑year‑long mystery.
Patel, an Indian national who was added to the FBI’s most wanted list on April 18, 2017, is wanted in connection with the violent murder of his wife, Palak Patel, during a night shift at a Dunkin’ Donuts in Hanover, Maryland, on April 12, 2015. At the time, Palak was just 21 years old and working alongside her husband at the donut shop located on Arundel Mills Boulevard. Authorities say a dispute between the couple escalated into a deadly attack in a back room of the store shortly before midnight. Investigators allege Patel stabbed Palak multiple times, killing her, before fleeing the scene.
After the killing, law enforcement tracked Patel briefly to a hotel near Newark Liberty International Airport, New Jersey, where he checked in early the next morning with only the clothes he was wearing. Surveillance footage shows him later taking a shuttle to Newark Penn Station the last confirmed sighting of the fugitive.
In the years since, Patel has remained elusive, and the FBI is urging the public to come forward with tips that could finally lead to his capture. Investigators emphasize that Patel should be considered armed and extremely dangerous, and members of the public are reminded not to approach him if spotted.
FBI Baltimore Special Agent in Charge Jimmy Paul said the reward increase reflects the seriousness of the crime and aims to generate fresh leads in the long‑running investigation. Officials say that tips can be submitted confidentially through 1‑800‑CALL‑FBI (1‑800‑225‑5324) or online at tips.fbi.gov. International callers are directed to contact their nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
The FBI’s Ten Most Wanted Fugitives list, established in 1950, has been instrumental in helping law enforcement capture hundreds of high‑profile fugitives, with rewards often playing a crucial role in generating actionable public tips.
This dramatic reward increase comes more than a decade after the tragic murder, highlighting the enduring importance of public involvement in resolving cold cases and bringing justice to victims’ families