PITTSBURGH, PA – One man has been charged with multiple offenses, including homicide, in relation to the gruesome killing and dissection of a 14-year-old boy in Mercer County, Pennsylvania. On June 25, a report about the disappearance of 14-year-old Paul Likens Jr. was filed with the Sharon Police Department. Later that day, dismembered human remains were discovered in the waters of Shenango Lake located in Clark Borough, Mercer County.
The Pennsylvania State Police Troop D took over the case, and further investigations revealed more dissected remains in the lake’s vicinity. Forensic evaluations identified the remains as those of the missing teenager. The cause of death was declared as sharp force trauma to the head and the manner of death was ruled as homicide.
Based on their inquiries, state police concluded that the teenager was in the Budd Street Public Park area near the canoe launch on June 23 between 3 a.m. and 3:40 a.m., apparently waiting for someone. A vehicle was reportedly present in the vicinity at that time, which was later traced back to a man named DaShawn Watkins via Riverwalk Apartments.
Watkins reportedly made multiple trips out of his apartment carrying various bags including garbage bags. Further investigation revealed traces of blood in his residence which led to his arrest. Currently, Watkins is held in Mercer County Jail. The nature of his relationship with the deceased remains unclear. However, he reportedly told police that he had connected with an individual, likely the teenager, via a social media app.
Presently, the Pennsylvania State Police is welcoming any additional information about the case.