Kentucky Manhunt Enters Third Day After Interstate 75 Shooting

A massive manhunt for a suspect in a shooting that injured five people and damaged 12 vehicles on Interstate 75 in southeastern Kentucky entered its third day on Monday.

The search, which has been ongoing since Saturday evening, has been focused on a rugged, hilly area near London, a small city of about 8,000 people. Authorities have been using a drone, helicopter, and foot patrols to scour the area, but so far, the suspect remains at large.

“We’re not going to quit until we do lay hands on him,” Laurel County Sheriff John Root said on Sunday night.

The suspect, identified as 32-year-old Joseph A. Couch, is believed to have planned the attack, which occurred on a remote stretch of the interstate. Authorities found his abandoned SUV on a service road near the crime scene, as well as a semi-automatic weapon and a phone believed to be his.

Couch, who has a military background, purchased the weapon and about 1,000 rounds of ammunition on Saturday morning in London. Authorities say he fired 20 to 30 rounds during the attack, striking 12 vehicles and injuring five people.

The search has been stressful for the community, with many schools canceling classes on Monday and residents advised to lock their doors and keep their porch lights on. State police Master Trooper Scottie Pennington said troopers from around the state have been brought in to aid the manhunt, which has been described as “walking in a jungle” due to the dense woods and hilly terrain.

As the search continues, authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious activity. “We’re doing everything that we can do,” Sheriff Root said. “Just be confident.”

The attack has left many in the community on edge, with some residents expressing frustration and concern. “This is tragic, obviously, that somebody would randomly do violent acts,” said Rodney Goodlett, pastor of Faith Assembly of God in London. “You hear media things taking place all around our country, but then when it hits home, it’s a little bit of a wake-up call.”

Authorities are following up on numerous tips from the public and are working to track down the suspect. “We’ve got to get him,” said Deputy Gilbert Acciardo, a spokesperson for the Laurel County Sheriff’s Office.