Shocking Discovery: Ohio Teens Found Rescued in Remote River Amidst Tragic Murder Saga

Four Ohio teenagers who went missing while tubing in the Tuscarawas River have been found safe, offering a glimmer of hope amidst the horrific news of a 14-year-old transgender teen's murder and dismemberment in Pennsylvania.

Four Ohio teens embarked on a tubing adventure that took a terrifying turn when they went missing in the remote Tuscarawas River on Thursday. Amidst growing concerns and a search operation by the Ohio State Highway Patrol, the teens were miraculously found safe hours later, bringing relief to their families and the community.

In a stark contrast to the Ohio rescue, Pennsylvania authorities have uncovered a chilling crime in Mercer County. Dashawn Watkins, 29, has been arrested in connection with the brutal murder and dismemberment of 14-year-old transgender teen Pauly Likens.

Shocking Discovery: Ohio Teens Found Rescued in Remote River Amidst Tragic Murder Saga

According to a criminal complaint, Likens' father reported his son missing on June 25 after last hearing from him on June 23. The subsequent investigation revealed a tragic tale of deception and violence.

Likens had allegedly planned to stay with an unknown friend on the night of June 23. However, his whereabouts became a mystery until dismembered human remains were discovered at Shenango River Lake on June 25.

Shocking Discovery: Ohio Teens Found Rescued in Remote River Amidst Tragic Murder Saga

Forensic evidence confirmed the remains belonged to Likens, and the cause of death was determined to be sharp force trauma to the head, ruling it a homicide.

Investigators meticulously pieced together the missing puzzle, obtaining cell phone location data and interviewing witnesses. Evidence suggests that Likens met Watkins on Grindr, a popular LGBTQ dating app.

Shocking Discovery: Ohio Teens Found Rescued in Remote River Amidst Tragic Murder Saga

Further surveillance footage and social media records linked Watkins to the scene of the horrific crime. He has been charged with murder, aggravated assault, evidence tampering, and abuse of a corpse.

Watkins allegedly confessed to meeting Likens through Grindr and arranging a rendezvous. The motive for the brutal killing remains under investigation.

Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro has expressed condolences to Likens' family and called for stronger laws to protect LGBTQ+ individuals from hate-based crimes.

"Pennsylvania State Police’s investigation is ongoing, and her horrific murder must be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law," Shapiro said. "It’s past time to strengthen Pennsylvania’s laws to treat hate-based crimes against LGBTQ+ folks the same way other hate crimes are treated."

Watkins is scheduled to appear in court for a preliminary hearing on July 25. The tragic murder and dismemberment of Pauly Likens has sent shockwaves through the community and highlighted the urgent need to address hate crimes against LGBTQ+ individuals.