The search for Joseph Couch, the man suspected of opening fire on vehicles traveling along Interstate 75 in rural Kentucky, continued late into Sunday night following a daylong manhunt across rugged, wooded terrain.
Kentucky State Police are leading the hunt for Couch, 32, who was identified after a vehicle registered to him and an AR-style rifle were found near the shooting site, approximately eight miles from London, Kentucky. Five people were injured in the shooting spree but are reported to be in stable condition; one was shot in the face and another in the arm.
Authorities believe Couch purchased his weapon and ammunition on Saturday morning, according to Laurel County Sheriff Captain Richard Dalrymple. The shooting began around 5:30 p.m. from a cliff overlooking a remote section of the interstate, impacting at least 12 vehicles.
FBI Special Agent in Charge Michael Stansbury emphasized that the search would continue until Couch is apprehended. The motive for the shootings remains under investigation.
Residents in the area have been advised to lock their doors and stay alert, as Couch is considered armed and dangerous. The search was paused for the night due to the dangerous terrain but will resume with ground teams, a helicopter, and a drone equipped with infrared technology. Federal, state, and local agencies are involved in the search.
In response to the ongoing situation, Laurel County public schools have canceled classes for Monday as a precaution.
The incident comes just days after a school shooting in Winder, Georgia, which resulted in four deaths and nine injuries.
