– LGBTQ+ community in northwest PA mourns tragic death of transgender teen
– LGBTQ+ community in northwest PA grieves loss of transgender teenager.
Accident – Death – Obituary News :
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In late June, a report of a missing person and the discovery of human remains sparked an investigation into the death of 14-year-old Sharon resident, Pauly A. Likens Jr. The Pennsylvania State Police have charged a 29-year-old Sharon resident, DaShawn Watkins, in connection with the killing of the victim. It is alleged that Watkins met Pauly via the Grindr app.
Shenango Valley LGBTQIA+ Alliance Supports Pauly’s Family
Pauly, who was a transgender female, has been identified by the Shenango Valley LGBTQIA+ Alliance, which is providing support to Pauly’s family during this difficult time. The alliance, which recently moved into its own office space in Sharon, advocates for the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and questioning and queer community in Mercer County.
Pam Ladner, the president of the Shenango Valley LGBTQIA+ Alliance, expressed shock and devastation at Pauly’s death, emphasizing the need for advocacy and support within the LGBTQ+ community. The alliance was not familiar with Pauly prior to the incident but has since worked closely with the family to ensure that Pauly is recognized and remembered as a transgender female who used she/her pronouns.
Candlelight Vigil Planned to Honour Pauly
The Shenango Valley LGBTQIA+ Alliance has organized a candlelight vigil to honour Pauly, scheduled for July 13 at the alliance’s office in Sharon. The event aims to show support for Pauly’s family and to remember the young victim. Additionally, a GoFundMe account has been set up to assist Pauly’s family, raising nearly $20,000 as of Friday evening.
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Investigation Details Unfold in Tragic Case
The investigation into Pauly’s disappearance and murder began on June 25 when the victim’s father reported that he had not seen Pauly since June 22. Human remains were discovered in the area of Shenango River Lake, leading to the identification of Pauly. The Mercer County Coroner’s Office ruled the cause of death as a homicide due to sharp force trauma to the head.
Cellphone records, surveillance video, and evidence found in Watkins’ apartment led to his arrest on charges of first-degree murder, abuse of a corpse, aggravated assault, and tampering with evidence. Watkins allegedly met Pauly through the Grindr app, with police alleging that he dismembered Pauly’s remains using a cutting instrument.
Community Support and Solidarity
The tragic death of Pauly has mobilized the LGBTQ+ community in Mercer County and beyond, with organisations in Erie and Pittsburgh showing solidarity with the Shenango Valley LGBTQIA+ Alliance. The outpouring of support for Pauly’s family has been immense, with many individuals and groups reaching out to offer assistance and condolences.
As the investigation continues and justice is sought for Pauly, the Shenango Valley LGBTQIA+ Alliance remains committed to advocating for the LGBTQ+ community and supporting those affected by this heartbreaking loss.
Contact Ed Palattella at epalattella@timesnews.com or 814-870-1813. Follow him on X @ETNpalattella.
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“LGBTQ+ community mourns killing of transgender teen in northwest PA”
“Northwest PA LGBTQ+ community mourns tragic death of transgender teen”.
