Graham Connell: Missing man’s dog found dead in river | UK News

A missing man’s dog has been found dead in a river, as officers continue to search the area for him.

The dog, a sandy-coloured goldendoodle called Maddy, was found dead in the River Aire in Woodlesford, near Leeds, on Wednesday morning.

She went missing with Graham Connell, 64, who left his home in Morley, West Yorkshire, by car at about 3.45pm on Monday to go for a run.

He was reported missing at 7.35pm after he failed to return home.

Graham Connell, 64, left his home in Morley, West Yorkshire, by car at about 3.45pm on Monday to go for a run. Pic: West Yorkshire Police.
Image:
He left his home in Morley, West Yorkshire, by car at about 3.45pm on Monday to go for a run. Pic: West Yorkshire Police.

Maddy was recovered from the river near Wyke Beck. Her identity was confirmed by microchip.

Underwater search officers are continuing to look in the area around Woodlesford Lock, where Mr Connell regularly runs.

They are continuing to appeal for any sightings that could assist the investigation.

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Detective Inspector John Graham, of Leeds District CID, said: “We are continuing to carry out searches of the wider area around Woodlesford Lock to find Graham and we are keen to hear from anyone who may have seen him and his dog at any point along his usual running route on late Monday afternoon.

“We are also continuing to support the family following the discovery of their dog this morning and keep them updated as we progress our searches for Graham.”

Mr Connell is described as being 5ft 6in tall, slim with greying dark brown hair, which is wavy on top.

He was wearing a fluorescent yellow running top, black leggings, and red trainers, at the time he went missing.

His car, a grey Mercedes GLE 400 SUV, was found parked in the car park on Bullough Lane, near the entrance to Woodlesford Lock.