Man Wanted for Killing Wife Inside Dunkin' Donuts: Police

>>News Alerts: Subscribe to a free email newsletter: ANNAPOLIS • ODENTON • COLUMBIA

Anne Arundel County Police are searching for a man suspected of killing his wife in the kitchen of the Hanover Dunkin’ Donuts where they both worked.

Customers at the restaurant called police just before 11 p.m. Sunday to report there were no employees inside the business at 7657 Arundel Mills Boulevard in Hanover. When an officer checked the restaurant he found a woman lying in the kitchen area with severe injuries; she was pronounced dead at the scene by medical personnel.

The homicide victim has been identified as Palak Bhadreskumar Patel, 21, of the 1600 block of Cheston Lane in Hanover.

The victim’s husband, Bhadreshkumar Chetanbhai Patel, 24, who is also an employee of that Dunkin’ Donuts location, was identified as a suspect in his wife’s death. Investigators say Patel killed his wife by striking her multiple times with an object before fleeing the business.

An arrest warrant has been issued for Patel charging him with first-degree murder, second-degree murder, first-degree assault, second-degree assault, and dangerous weapon with intent to injure.

Police said they believe the homicide is domestic-related. Within the past year, there was one prior domestic complaint involving the couple, police told WBAL TV.

Police say Patel is considered dangerous and they urge anyone with information to call homicide Detective Kelly Harding at 410-222-4743. Callers may remain anonymous by contacting the Anne Arundel County Police Tip Line at 410-222-4700 or Metro Crime Stoppers.

SEE ALSO:

• Police Arrest Second Suspect in Officer’s Shooting
• One Killed in Crash Near Severn: Police
• Driver Charged in ‘Stop Whining’ Fatal Hit-and-Run