The death of Pauly Likens, a transgender teenager from western Pennsylvania, was likely not a hate crime, police said, but the killing nonetheless shocked the LGBTQ community.
Here’s what we know about the case.
Who is Pauly Likens?
Pauly Likens, a transgender girl, was reported missing on June 25 after being last seen near a canoe launch in downtown Sharon, Pennsylvania, three days earlier.
Likens, 14, died of blunt force head trauma and was dismembered. His remains were found in Shenago River Lake on June 25.
Investigators say Likens was killed on June 23.
Who is Dashawn Watkins?
Dashawn Watkins, 29, of Sharon, Pennsylvania, has been charged with first-degree murder, aggravated assault, abuse of a corpse and tampering with evidence in connection with Likens’ death.
Watkins said he used the Grindr app to arrange to meet someone in the area where Likens was last known, but claimed not to know the teen.
Watkins told police he had sex with the person he met on Grindr, who matched Likens’ description, but did not take her back to his apartment. He was allegedly seen on surveillance footage on June 23 bringing an empty duffel bag into his apartment, then leaving about 25 minutes later with something in the bag.
Blood and a saw were found in his apartment.
Mercer County Prosecutor Peter C. Acker said the hate crime charges were not pursued because Watkins is gay and Likens was transitioning.
Where is Sharon, Pennsylvania?
Sharon is located in Mercer County, Pennsylvania, United States. It is a city of approximately 13,000 people. Located near the Ohio border, Sharon is known for its industrial history and is part of the Shenango Valley region. The city is surrounded by scenic landscapes and is a center for local commerce and community activities.
Where is Shenago River Lake?
Shenango River Lake, a reservoir located primarily in Mercer County, is managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and covers approximately 11 miles along the Shenango River.
The lake is popular with boaters, fishermen, campers and wildlife enthusiasts.
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