Man charged with murder after dog owner stabbed to death in labradoodle theft
25 August 2023, 10:06 | Updated: 26 August 2023, 12:04
A man has been charged with the murder of a dog owner fatally stabbed during the burglary of his pet labradoodle.
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Donald Patience, 45, was pronounced dead at his home in Radcliffe, Bury when police attended a burglary call for a £1,000 white labradoodle on Tuesday morning.
He had been "dead for several days", the force added.
Ian Connell, 39, has been charged with his murder, Greater Manchester Police said.
Loved ones described Mr Patience, affectionately known as Prentice, as "a much-loved son, brother and father", adding that he "will be sorely missed by many".
A post-mortem examination concluded that his death was suspicious.
Three men have since been arrested in connection with the incident on suspicion of murder.
After being questioned two men, aged 27 and 41, were bailed pending further enquires.
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Detective Chief Inspector Rachel Smith of Greater Manchester Police’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.
"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."
