Thursday, October 3, 2024
Thursday, October 3, 2024
HomeWorldSuspect Still at Large After Kentucky Highway Shooting Spree

Suspect Still at Large After Kentucky Highway Shooting Spree

A manhunt continues for the second consecutive day in Kentucky following a shooting on a major highway near the city of London. Authorities are searching for a suspect believed to be involved in the shooting of several people on Saturday evening.

The incident occurred around 5:30 PM local time (21:30 GMT) near Interstate 75 (I-75) in southeastern Kentucky. Nine vehicles were struck by gunfire as they traveled along the highway in both directions. Officers responded to the scene and discovered a chaotic situation with bullet-riddle cars, shattered windows, and injured individuals.

The police have named 32-year-old Joseph A. Couch, a Woodbine, Kentucky resident, as a person of interest in the investigation. Couch is considered armed and dangerous, and authorities are focusing their search on a remote, heavily wooded area about nine miles (14 km) from London. Officials said Couch’s silver SUV was found Saturday night with a gun case inside, but no firearm.

At least five people sustained gunshot wounds during the attack. While some of the injuries were described as “very serious,” all the victims were reported to be in stable condition as of Sunday morning. Among the injured is one person who was shot in the face.

Authorities are continuing their efforts to track down Couch, and the Laurel County Sheriff’s office is coordinating a ground search in the area. They have also deployed a drone to assist in the search, but the rugged terrain and dense woods have slowed progress.

Authorities recovered an assault-style firearm on Sunday in the vicinity of the shooting, which they believe was used in the attack. Initial reports suggest that shots may have been fired from a wooded area adjacent to the highway or possibly from an overpass.

The shooting prompted authorities to close I-75 for several hours to ensure the safety of passing motorists. As the investigation unfolds, officials have advised residents to remain vigilant. Mayor Randall Weddle of London, Kentucky, urged citizens to “keep your doors locked,” though he emphasized that the community is not in immediate danger.

Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear also addressed the situation, urging the public to avoid the area and offering prayers for everyone affected by the incident.

The search for Couch remains ongoing, with authorities working tirelessly to locate and apprehend him. The investigation is being led by the Laurel County Sheriff’s office with support from multiple law enforcement agencies.

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