Manhunt Underway After Highway Shooting Spree in Kentucky

A manhunt is still underway in Kentucky after authorities responded to an active shooter situation where “numerous persons” were targeted near Interstate 75 in Laurel County, Kentucky, located south of Lexington, according to the sheriff’s office.
The incident began Saturday evening, with reports of gunfire targeting vehicles on I-75 in Laurel County. Kentucky State Police say the shooting started just before 6 p.m., approximately nine miles outside of London. Shots were reportedly coming from a wooded area adjacent to the interstate.
The London Police Department has identified Joseph A. Couch, 32, as a “Person of Interest” who is considered “armed and dangerous.” He is described as a white man, roughly 5 foot, 10 inches, weighing about 154 pounds. Authorities are urging people to contact 911 with any information regarding Couch’s whereabouts.
Kentucky State Police Trooper Scottie Pennington stated via Facebook, “The suspect has not been caught at this time. We are urging people to stay inside.” Pennington added that law enforcement will provide “as much information as it becomes available.”
In a video statement released on Facebook, London Mayor Randall Weddle said he was told seven people were injured during the incident, but not all of those were wounded by the suspect’s gunfire. Reportedly, some of the victims were hurt in a vehicle accident. He also noted authorities were searching for the suspect or suspects in “rugged terrain and a lot of tree lines.”
“There are no deceased at this time. No one was killed from this, thankfully, but we ask that you continue to pray,” Weddle asked of the public.
Gov. Andy Beshear confirmed the incident in a post on X, stating, “Kentucky, we are aware of a shooting on I-75 in Laurel County. Law enforcement has shut the interstate down in both directions at exit 49. Please avoid the area.”
In a follow-up statement, Beshear added that he’s receiving “initial reports” from state police and the Office of Homeland Security. “Together we are actively monitoring the situation and offering support in any way possible. Please pray for everyone involved,” the governor said.
The interstate was reopened Saturday night after it was closed for nearly three hours from exit 41 to exit 59, both northbound and southbound lanes, according to the Mount Vernon Fire Department.
In a post on X, The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives in Louisville said in a statement that its officers were responding and assisting the Kentucky State Police and local authorities with a “critical incident” near I-75.
Update 9/7/24, 9:20 p.m. ET: This article has been updated with additional information.
Update 9/7/24, 11:11 p.m. ET: This article has been updated with additional information.