By Trend News Line 2024-07-03 20:37:29.
# Man Charged in Connection to Dismembered Human Remains Found in Mercer County Lake
**Discovery of Human Remains**
A man is now facing charges in connection to the discovery of human remains found in Shenango Lake, Mercer County. The grim findings were made at the end of June, sending shockwaves through the local community. Pennsylvania State Police released a statement confirming that dismembered human remains were located partially submerged in the water on June 25. Subsequent searches in the lake and various remote locations uncovered more body parts, all belonging to the same individual.
**Identification of the Victim**
The victim was identified as 14-year-old Paul Likens Jr. from Sharon. Paul had been reported missing on the same day his remains were discovered. A forensic pathologist determined that Paul had been dismembered using some type of cutting instrument. The Mercer County Coroner’s Office concluded that the cause of death was sharp force trauma to the head, with the manner of death ruled as homicide.
**Last Known Movements**
According to PSP, the last known contact with Paul was on June 22. Investigators delved into phone records, social media activity, and surveillance footage to piece together his movements. It was revealed that Paul had walked to Budd Street Public Park and Canoe Launch in the early hours of June 23, appearing to be waiting for someone while on the phone.
**Developing a Suspect**
Video footage from the launch area helped police identify a suspect vehicle linked to the case. The vehicle was traced back to Riverwalk Apartments, where a man named DaShawn Watkins was seen leaving and returning in a manner consistent with the suspect vehicle’s movements. Watkins was observed struggling to carry a duffle bag upon his return, and subsequent footage showed him leaving his apartment multiple times on June 24 with various bags and garbage bags.
**Evidence in Watkins’ Apartment**
Preliminary tests conducted in Watkins’ apartment yielded positive results for the presence of blood, including underneath the bathroom floor lining. As a result of the accumulating evidence and investigative findings, Watkins was arrested and is now facing several charges, including first-degree murder and abuse of a corpse. He is currently being held in Mercer County Jail without bail.
**Conclusion**
The tragic and disturbing nature of this case has sent shockwaves through the local community. The loss of a young life in such a brutal manner has left many reeling, and the arrest of a suspect has brought a semblance of closure to the investigation. The details surrounding Paul Likens Jr.’s disappearance and subsequent death continue to unfold, shedding light on the dark events that transpired in Mercer County..
1. Man charged with killing missing 14-year-old in Mercer County
2. Dismembering missing 14-year-old in Mercer County, police say.