A trial date has been set for the murder case that shocked the Western PA LGBTQ+ Community last summer. DaShawn Watkins, accused of killing and dismembering 14-year-old Pauly Likens in June 2024, is scheduled to stand trial this July in Mercer County Common Pleas Court. Watkins faces life in prison without parole if convicted. He is not currently charged with a hate crime.
Pauly Likens, a trans girl remembered by loved ones as a kind and nature-loving spirit, dreamed of becoming a park ranger. Her tragic death brought the community together in mourning and ignited ongoing conversations about the violence faced by trans youth.
Watkins remains in custody and has been charged with first-degree murder, among other offenses.
