Terrifying Dog-Napping Attempt: Three Masked Men Storm Doncaster Home
Police have launched an urgent probe after three men tried to break into a Doncaster man’s home to snatch his prized dogs. The daring daylight raid was thwarted by the homeowner, who fought off the intruders, sustaining minor injuries.
Dogs Targeted in Brazen Break-In Bid
Ryan Hesford, 33, was home alone with his three dogs – two Shih Tzus and a Pomeranian – when the ordeal unfolded around 9pm on Wednesday. Known to be in high demand among dog thieves, Ryan’s pets were clearly the target.
After persistent doorbell ringing and banging, Ryan tried to communicate through his Ring doorbell but technical issues forced him to answer the door in person. That’s when chaos erupted.
Masked Thugs Armed With Metal Bar Force Their Way In
Surveillance footage captured two masked men and an accomplice pushing past Ryan. One brandished a metal bar during a scuffle. One thug actually got inside the house, searching desperately for the barking dogs.
“I’m just glad my dogs are safe,” Ryan said. “I feel lucky the man who got in didn’t open the room where they were.”
A neighbour, alerted by the noise, rushed over and hauled one of the men away from the door. The trio fled swiftly down the road.
Police Appeal For Public Help To ID Dog Thieves
Ryan only realised one intruder had entered his home after watching the footage later. “It was scary to watch,” he admitted, “He must have panicked and left quickly.”
The video shows one man with a distinctive neck tattoo posing as a parcel delivery person before the attack. After a failed attempt to fool Ryan, the men grew aggressive.
Ryan, a property manager, was working with headphones on and initially thought the motion alert was just an animal. His quick thinking and brave defence stopped the crooks in their tracks.
South Yorkshire Police are investigating the incident, which happened in the Thorne area and urge anyone with information to call 101 quoting incident number 953 of 7 April. You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via Crimestoppers-uk.org.
Let’s catch these dog-napping desperados before they strike again!
