A heartbreaking murder case involving a Virginia mother of three has shocked communities in both Virginia and West Virginia after investigators alleged she was lured away from her home with the promise of a new job before being killed by a man she was romantically involved with.
Angel Whitaker, 37, reportedly left her home in Bristol, Virginia, earlier this year after Donald Pennington, 59, allegedly offered her a job opportunity at an O’Reilly Auto Parts store in Bluefield, West Virginia. According to investigators, Whitaker moved more than 100 miles away and eventually began living with Pennington after relocating.
However, only a few months later, Whitaker disappeared, leading to a disturbing investigation that has now resulted in murder charges against Pennington.
How Angel Whitaker Moved to West Virginia
According to investigators, Whitaker first met Pennington in 2018 while working at an auto shop in Bristol, Virginia. Authorities said the two later became romantically involved.
In January 2026, Pennington allegedly convinced Whitaker to move to Bluefield, West Virginia, after offering her an assistant manager position at an O’Reilly Auto Parts store. Hoping for a fresh start and a new career opportunity, Whitaker relocated and moved in with him.
Family members later told investigators that the relationship became increasingly difficult after the move. In the weeks leading up to her disappearance, Whitaker reportedly moved out of Pennington’s home and into a hotel in Princeton, West Virginia, to create distance from the situation.
Family Reported Her Missing
Whitaker was last reportedly seen on April 17, 2026. According to investigators, she allegedly arrived at work intoxicated that day. Pennington later told police he drove her home before returning to work. When he came back later, he claimed she was gone.
As days passed without any contact, Whitaker’s family became increasingly worried. Her sister, Angela, officially reported her missing on May 4 after losing all communication with her.
The disappearance quickly raised concerns among investigators and family members because Whitaker had reportedly remained in regular contact with her children and relatives before suddenly vanishing.
Ex-Girlfriend’s Shocking Statement
The investigation took a major turn on May 12 when Pennington’s ex-girlfriend reportedly contacted investigators with alarming information.
According to police documents, the woman allegedly told investigators, “You’re not going to find her, he murdered her.”
She claimed Pennington and Whitaker had been arguing constantly before Whitaker disappeared. Investigators said Pennington had earlier contacted the ex-girlfriend and claimed Whitaker threatened him during an argument involving one of her family members.
The woman alleged that Pennington later admitted he “snapped” during the confrontation.
According to investigators, the ex-girlfriend claimed Pennington confessed to choking Whitaker by grabbing her throat until she stopped breathing. She also alleged that he showed her a photo of Whitaker’s body taken using the victim’s own phone.
Allegations About Hiding Evidence
Investigators further alleged that Pennington attempted to destroy evidence after the killing.
According to the criminal complaint, the ex-girlfriend told police Pennington soaked Whitaker’s phones in bleach and destroyed the SIM cards to prevent investigators from accessing information.
She also claimed Pennington later bought several bags of concrete from a Lowe’s store in Bluefield, Virginia. The two then allegedly travelled to Bastian, Virginia, where investigators believe Whitaker’s body may have been buried.
The woman later led authorities to the suspected burial location. Virginia State Police deployed cadaver dogs to search the area, but Whitaker’s remains were not located during the search operation.
Investigators also stated that the ex-girlfriend admitted deleting text messages from Pennington related to the alleged murder before eventually turning over her phone to authorities.
Murder Charges Filed Against Pennington
Donald Pennington was arrested on May 13 and is currently being held at the West Virginia Regional Jail & Correctional Facility Authority.
Authorities said he has pleaded not guilty to charges including second-degree murder and concealment of a body.
The investigation remains ongoing as authorities continue searching for Whitaker’s remains and gathering additional evidence connected to the case.
Family Left Devastated
Angel Whitaker leaves behind three children: 18-year-old Braiden, 17-year-old Daizy, and 12-year-old Christopher.
The tragic case has deeply affected her family and loved ones, who are now struggling with both grief and uncertainty while investigators continue searching for answers. A GoFundMe page has reportedly been created to help the family cover funeral-related expenses and support Whitaker’s children during the difficult period ahead.
