Murder probe launched after man found dead in house after Labradoodle stolen

25 August 2023 , 08:56

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Donald 'Prentice' Patience was found dead (Image: Greater Manchester Police)

A man was found dead at his home following an alleged robbery in which a labradoodle dog was stolen - with a murder investigation launched.

The body of Donald 'Prentice' Patience was discovered by police on Tuesday morning at an address in Bury, Greater Manchester. Officers had responded to reports of a burglary at the property in Ainsworth Road, in Radcliffe, at around 10.30am before the 45-year-old dad was declared deceased at the scene.

Donald’s loved ones described him as “a much-loved son, brother and father and will be sorely missed by many, affectionately known as Prentice.” The victim’s loved ones are currently being supported by family liaison officers at this difficult time whilst the dog is being looked after by the relevant authority. Due to the circumstances in which the man was found, a Home Office post-mortem examination has taken place and this has concluded that death is suspicious.

Greater Manchester Police have arrested three men in connection with the incident on suspicion of murder. After being questioned, two men, aged 27 and 41, have been released on bail pending further enquires, whilst a 39-year-old man remains in police custody. Officers are now appealing to the public for anyone who may have seen or heard anything unusual earlier this week in and around the area.

Donald posted a photo of a labradoodle on social media (prentice.patience/Facebook)

Detective Chief Inspector Rachel Smith of GMP’s Major Incident Team said: "First, as a force, we would like to pass on our condolences to Donald's loved ones at this extremely distressing time, we are doing all we can to get the answers they deserve and find out what has happened. Since we were made aware of this incident earlier this week our investigation has been swift and precise, with three arrested because of our enquiries with one at the scene at the time of the suspected burglary. I would like to reassure the local public, as I understand there will be alarm when finding out about this, but we are confident it is a targeted attack.

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“We now want to appeal to the local community for any eyewitness accounts or footage of any activity that we may be able to link to this investigation. We are also looking for people who may know Donald, have seen him walking his beloved white labradoodle in the local area or have any knowledge of any activity at or near his address, which is an end terrace on Ainsworth Road, since Friday 18 August 2023.

Donald also said his dog Layla is at the front to the right with her paws over the edge in this photo (prentice.patience/Facebook)

“It is crucial we have as much detail as possible to help piece together what has happened in this tragic incident where someone has sadly lost their life. We are keeping all available lines of enquiry open but no matter how small, your piece of information may be that crucial bit of evidence we need that can help us with this investigation.”

If anyone has any information or specific detail regarding the incident or Donald, they are asked to contact GMP’s Major Incident Team direct on 0161 856 3635 or 101 quoting incident number 1139 of 22/08/2023 or via the independent charity - Crimestoppers - on 0800 555 111.

Ryan Merrifield