BREAKING: Murder investigation launched after police find body while responding to 'dog burglary'

A murder investigation has been launched after officers responding to a 'dog burglary' discovered the body of a 45-year-old man. Police were called out to an address on Ainsworth Road, in Radcliffe, at around 10.30am on Tuesday (August 22) following reports of a burglary - with a white labradoodle dog being taken from the house.

Upon searching the property, police found a man inside, who was pronounced dead at the scene. Greater Manchester Police has today (Friday) named him as Donald Prentice Patience.

Donald’s loved ones described him as 'a much-loved son, brother and father and will be sorely missed by many, affectionately known as Prentice'. They are currently being supported by family liaison officers while the dog is being looked after by the relevant authority, GMP says.

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Due to the circumstances in which the man was found, a home office post-mortem examination has taken place and this has concluded that death is 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, have been released bailed pending further enquires, while a 39-year-old man remains in police custody. GMP says it is currently unable to confirm the cause of Donald's death.

The force says its response to the burglary was 'swift', with an arrest being made close by 'shortly after'. Enquiries are ongoing and officers are now appealing to the public who may have seen or heard anything unusual earlier this week in the area.

Detective Chief Inspector Rachel Smith, of GMP’s Major Incident Team, said: "First, as a force, we would like to pass on our condolences to