A father, aged 45, has been reportedly killed by burglars who entered his home with the intention of stealing their cherished white labradoodle dog, valued at £1,000. Donald ‘Prentice’ Patience was discovered deceased at his residence in Radcliffe on Tuesday. Law enforcement had been alerted to the presence of burglars attempting to take his beloved dog. The incident was reported by Tom Cotterill, updated: 05:31 EDT, 25 August 2023.
A murder investigation has been initiated as detectives respond to the death of a father during a burglary where the perpetrators sought to take his much-loved pet dog. Police were dispatched to a property on Ainsworth Road, Radcliffe, at 10:30 am on Tuesday following reports of individuals attempting to snatch a white labradoodle. During a search of the premises, officers discovered the body of Donald ‘Prentice’ Patience, aged 45. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Loved ones of Mr. Patience, deeply saddened, described him as “a beloved son, brother, and father” who will be greatly missed. The pet dog was quickly retrieved nearby due to a prompt response from the police and is now under the care of the relevant authority, Greater Manchester Police confirmed.
A Home Office post-mortem examination has classified Mr. Patience’s death as suspicious. In connection to the incident, three men have been arrested on suspicion of murder. Following questioning, two of the men, aged 27 and 41, have been released on bail pending further inquiries. A 39-year-old man remains in police custody. Online, labradoodle puppies can be sold for prices ranging between £700 and £1,500. Investigators are urging anyone who might have witnessed or heard anything unusual in the area earlier this week to come forward. They specifically seek information about the victim, his dogs, and any related activities. Detective Chief Inspector Rachel Smith of GMP’s Major Incident Team extended condolences to the victim’s family and assured the community that the incident appears to be a targeted attack. She encouraged the public to share any details or evidence that could assist in understanding this tragic incident.
For those with relevant information, the police can be contacted at 0161 856 3635 or 101, quoting incident number 1139 of 22/08/2023. Alternatively, the independent charity Crimestoppers can be reached at 0800 555 111. If anyone knew Mr. Patience personally or has information about him, they are encouraged to email tom.cotterill@mailonline.co.uk.
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