Manhunt for suspect in I-75 shooting continues
LAUREL COUNTY, Ky. (ABC36 NEWS NOW) – The search is still underway for 32-year-old Joseph Couch, who is accused of injuring multiple people in a mass shooting on I-75 near Exit 49 in Laurel County on Saturday.
Authorities say Couch allegedly shot into nine vehicles, sending several people to the hospital. Five people were shot, and two others were injured in a related crash. UK Hospital received three of the victims, with one patient being discharged and the other two currently in good condition.
Officials warn that Couch, a resident of Woodbine, is considered armed and dangerous. He is described as being 5’10” tall and weighing 154 pounds. Authorities are urging anyone who sees him to call 911 immediately.
The search for Couch has been focused on the Daniel Boone National Forest, where law enforcement officials have been conducting an extensive, tireless search. Kentucky State Police Trooper Scottie Pennington spoke on the efforts, noting the vast and challenging terrain. He added that Couch had previously served in the Army Reserve but has since been discharged.
“Our goal is to apply steady pressure and wear Mr. Couch down,” said Pennington. “The longer he is in the woods, the harder it gets—last night it got pretty chilly, and today it’s humid and hot. Hopefully, he has no water and nothing to eat. We’re putting constant pressure on him with helicopters, drones, dogs, and vehicles patrolling the area.”
At this time, it is unclear if Couch is receiving help from anyone.
A $15,000 reward is being offered for information leading to Couch’s arrest. Authorities urge the public to stay vigilant and report any sightings immediately.
ABC 36, got a chance to speak to Governor Andy Beshear regarding the incident who says “this shouldn’t be happening, our kids should not be having to go through active shooter training, we ought to do better, and we should take ideas from any and all sides, yes we need our schools to be more secure, but also, let’s look at gun locks and what other possibilities there are.”
