A shocking murder case from West Virginia has left a family heartbroken after a woman who moved for a new job opportunity was found dead. Police say the accused, Donald Ray Pennington, offered Angel Whitaker a job before she disappeared. The case has gained attention because of the disturbing details and the emotional impact on Whitaker’s young children and family.
West Virginia Man Charged With Murder
According to online court records, Donald Ray Pennington has been charged with second-degree murder and concealment of a deceased human body. Reports from local media outlets state that he has pleaded not guilty to the charges.
The investigation began after Angel Whitaker, a woman from Bluefield, West Virginia, was reported missing. Her family became worried when they stopped hearing from her in mid-April.
How Angel Whitaker Met the Accused
Angel Whitaker reportedly met Pennington while working at an auto parts store in Bristol, Virginia. Police documents shared by local news outlets claim that Pennington offered her a job as an assistant manager.
Because of the new opportunity, Whitaker moved to West Virginia and started living with him. However, things later became difficult between the two.
Investigators reportedly checked Whitaker’s Facebook messages and learned from people close to the couple that their relationship had become troubled over time.
Family Became Concerned After Losing Contact
Whitaker’s family in Virginia noticed that she suddenly stopped communicating with them. This raised serious concerns, leading them to report her missing.
Police later spoke with Whitaker’s sister, who reportedly said Angel had once stayed in a hotel to get away from Pennington. This information became an important part of the investigation.
Here is a quick overview of the case:
| Case Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Victim | Angel Whitaker |
| Accused | Donald Ray Pennington |
| Charges | Second-degree murder and concealment of a body |
| Location | Bluefield, West Virginia |
| Body Found | Wooded area in Bastian, Virginia |
| Relationship | Whitaker reportedly moved after job offer |
| Current Plea | Not guilty |
Body Found in Virginia Wooded Area
Authorities eventually discovered Whitaker’s body in a wooded area in Bastian, Virginia. The location is less than 20 miles from Bluefield, where she had been living.
The discovery shocked the local community and added more sadness to an already heartbreaking situation.
Police have not publicly shared every detail of the investigation, but the case continues to move through the court system.
Whitaker’s Children Facing Difficult Time
Angel Whitaker leaves behind three children. Her son, Braiden Cross, started a GoFundMe campaign to help cover funeral expenses.
In the fundraiser description, he explained that he and his siblings are very young and unable to manage the financial burden alone.
The campaign touched many people online as supporters offered prayers and donations for the grieving family.
Community Reacts to the Tragic Case
Cases like this often leave communities in shock, especially when trust and personal relationships are involved. Many people online have expressed sadness over Whitaker’s death and sympathy for her children.
The story also highlights the importance of staying connected with loved ones and paying attention when someone suddenly loses contact or appears to be in trouble.
