Donald Ray Pennington has been charged with second-degree murder and concealment of a deceased human body in connection with the death of a West Virginia woman, authorities say. He has pleaded not guilty.
Victim Background
The victim, Angel Whitaker, had reportedly met Pennington while working at an auto parts store in Bristol, Virginia. Pennington offered her a job as an assistant manager, prompting Whitaker to move to West Virginia to live with him.
Disappearance and Investigation
Whitaker’s family lost contact with her in mid-April, prompting a missing person report. Investigators reviewed her Facebook messages and spoke to individuals who said the relationship between Whitaker and Pennington had deteriorated. Whitaker’s sister told police she had temporarily stayed in a hotel to distance herself from Pennington.
Discovery of the Body
Whitaker’s body was found in a wooded area in Bastian, Virginia, less than 20 miles from Bluefield. Authorities are continuing their investigation.
Family Response
Whitaker’s son, Braiden Cross, started a GoFundMe campaign to cover funeral expenses, noting that his three siblings and he were too young to afford the costs on their own.
