Dad 'murdered during dognapping' had house hit by thieves months before, stunned neighbours say
manchestereveningnews.co.ukA dad at the centre of a murder investigation following a 'dognapping burglary' sent a note to neighbours about items being allegedly stolen from his house months earlier, it has emerged, Dog lover Donald Patience, 45, known as 'Prentice', was found dead at his home on Ainsworth Road in Radcliffe, Bury, at around 10:30am on Tuesday morning (August 22).
Greater Manchester Police (GMP) said they made the discovery after responding to 'reports of a burglary in progress with a white labradoodle dog being taken from the address.' Try MEN Premium for FREE by clicking here for no ads, fun puzzles and brilliant new features Three men have been arrested on suspicion of murder.
The dog was seized by officers and is now being looked after 'by the relevant authority.' In a tribute issued through the force today (Friday), his family said he was a “a much-loved son, brother and father and will be sorely missed by many, affectionately known as Prentice.” Today the house remained taped off with officers standing guard outside.
The back window of the house was smashed and blue tarpaulin could be seen in the backyard. A number of floral tributes have also been left by the back wall of the house.
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