Washington: The Federal Bureau of Investigation has significantly increased the reward for information leading to the capture of an Indian national accused of killing his wife in the United States more than a decade ago. Authorities announced that the reward has been raised to as much as $1 million, a major increase from the earlier offer of $250,000.
The suspect, Bhadreshkumar Chetanbhai Patel, is wanted in connection with the death of his wife, Palak Patel. Investigators allege that the killing took place on April 12, 2015, at a doughnut shop in Hanover where the couple worked night shifts.
According to officials, Palak Patel, who was 21 at the time, was attacked in a back room of the shop shortly before midnight. Authorities say she was struck multiple times with a weapon before the suspect fled the premises through a rear exit. A customer later entered the shop, noticed that no one was present to take orders and alerted nearby police, who subsequently discovered the victim’s body.
Following the incident, investigators believe Patel returned briefly to the apartment he shared with his wife, collected some belongings and cash, and then left the area by taxi. The driver reportedly took him to a hotel near Newark Liberty International Airport. He checked in during the early hours with no luggage and departed later that morning, heading to Newark Penn Station. Authorities say that was the last confirmed sighting of him.
Patel, now 35, was later placed on the FBI’s “Ten Most Wanted Fugitives” list. He faces multiple charges, including first-degree murder, second-degree murder, assault and possession of a dangerous weapon with intent to injure. A federal warrant accusing him of unlawful flight to avoid prosecution was issued in April 2015 by the United States District Court for the District of Maryland.
Investigators have long speculated about the possible motive. Officials noted that the couple’s visas had expired shortly before the crime, and it is believed that Palak may have wanted to return to India, a move her husband reportedly opposed.
Authorities say the suspect should be considered armed and extremely dangerous. Over the years, investigators have explored several possibilities regarding his whereabouts, including the chance that he may still be in the United States, living with acquaintances, or that he may have crossed into Canada or travelled onward to India.
By increasing the reward amount, the FBI hopes to encourage new leads that could help track down the fugitive and bring him to justice after years of uncertainty surrounding the case. Officials have urged anyone with information about Patel’s location to come forward.
