Murder investigation launched after police find body while responding to dog theft

Aug 25, 2023

Police have launched a murder investigation after finding a man’s body while responding to reports of a dog being stolen.

Officers were called to an address on Ainsworth Road in Bury, Greater Manchester at approximately 10.30am on Tuesday 22 August, where the theft of a white labradoodle was believed to be in progress.

While searching the property, police found a man, who was pronounced dead at the scene. He has now been named as 45-year-old Donald ‘Prentice’ Patience.

His loved ones have described him as “a much-loved son, brother and father and will be sorely missed by many, affectionately known as Prentice”.

A post-mortem concluded that the death is suspicious.

Three men have been arrested on suspicion of murder, a 27-year-old and a 41-year-old, who have been bailed, and a third, 39, who remains in police custody.

Greater Manchester Police are now appealing for members of the public who may have information to come forward.

Detective Chief Inspector Rachel Smith said: “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.”

DCI Smith added that police are “confident” the incident was “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.

“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.”

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