Murder arrests as Bury man found dead after dog theft - BBC News
Donald Patience was found dead at a house by police responding to reports of a dog being stolen.
Donald Patience was found at a house in Radcliffe by police responding to reports of a dog being stolen

A murder investigation has been launched after a man was found dead when police were called to reports of a dog being stolen in a burglary.

Donald Patience, 45, was found at a house on Ainsworth Road in Radcliffe, Bury, at about 10:30 BST on Tuesday. He was declared dead at the scene.

Three men have been arrested on suspicion of murder.

Two men, aged 27 and 41, have been bailed pending further inquires and a 39-year-old man is in police custody.

Mr Patience's family said he was "a much-loved son, brother and father" who will be "sorely missed by many" and was "affectionately known as Prentice".

The back window of the house was smashed while neighbours said police had been outside the home since Tuesday.

Officers have appealed to the public who may have seen or heard anything "unusual" earlier in the week in and around the area.

Det Ch Insp Rachel Smith said: "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 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."

The force added the dog was being looked after.

A man from a nearby street, who did not want to be named, said: "I was coming out of my house in the morning and there were police all over the road.

"There was a man, about 6ft in a grey jacket, who had been arrested, and a curly dog.

"They were in the back of a police van.

"I just thought there had been a bit of an argument or something but then the next thing there were forensics everywhere so I knew it must be serious."

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