New York: In a recent update from New York, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has refreshed its list of the top 10 most wanted fugitives, casting a spotlight on Bhadresh Kumar Patel, an Indian national from Viramgam, Ahmedabad. Patel has been a fugitive since 2015, following the alleged murder of his wife, Palak Patel, inside a Dunkin’ Donuts coffee shop in Hanover, Maryland. The FBI has announced a substantial reward of $250,000 (approximately ₹2,09,02,825) for information leading to his capture.
Patel, who was 24 years old at the time of the incident, is accused of attacking his 21-year-old wife with a kitchen knife, inflicting fatal injuries while customers were present in the establishment. The tragic event unfolded in the back room of the shop where the couple was employed.
Reports suggest that the couple’s visas had expired roughly a month before the murder. It is believed that Palak Patel wished to return to their home country of India, a decision that her husband vehemently opposed. This disagreement is thought to have culminated in the heinous crime that has since placed Bhadresh Patel among the most dangerous criminals sought by the FBI.
The search for Patel has been ongoing since 2017 when he was first added to the FBI’s most-wanted list with an initial reward of $100,000. Despite the efforts and increased reward, Patel remains at large. Surveillance footage from the night of the murder shows the couple entering the kitchen area of the store, only for Patel to reappear alone shortly after.
The FBI warns that Bhadresh Patel is considered armed and extremely dangerous, and they urge anyone with information to come forward. The case continues to draw attention as authorities work tirelessly to bring Patel to justice and provide closure to this tragic chapter.
