Murder probe after man found dead in home after Labradoodle stolen

Donald Patience was described as ‘a much-loved son, brother and father’

Donald Patience (Greater Manchester Police)

Police have launched a murder probe after a man was found dead in his home when police were called to reports of a labradoodle being snatched in a burglary.

Officers were called to reports of a burglary in progress at an address on Ainsworth Road in Radcliffe at 10:30am on Tuesday 22 August 2023, with a white labradoodle dog being taken.

Donald “Prentice” Patience, 45, was declared dead at the scene and a post-mortem examination concluded the death was suspicious.

Three men were arrested on suspicion of murder, and two, aged 27 and 41, have since been released on bail.

Police said a 39-year-old man remains in police custody.

Mr Patience’s loved ones described him as “a much-loved son, brother and father” who “will be sorely missed by many”.The dog is currently being looked after by the relevant authority, police said.

The 45-year-old’s ex-wife Kirsty, with whom he shared three children, paid tribute to Mr Patience, describing him as “an amazing father and adored his children.”

“We are all truly heart broken at this news,” she said.

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.

“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.”

Ms Smith said police are looking for anyone who knew Mr Patience, saw him walking his labradoodle in the local area or have any knowledge of any activity at or near his address since Friday August 18.

Anyone with information has been asked to contact GMP’s Major Incident Team on 0161 856 3635 or 101, quoting incident number 1139 of 22/08/2023.