Manhunt Continues in Laurel County After Weekend Shooting
Laurel County, Kentucky, is on high alert as law enforcement continues to search for a man accused of injuring five people in a shooting incident on Interstate 75 over the weekend. The suspect, identified as Joseph A. Couch, a 32-year-old male from Woodbine, has evaded capture for a second night, prompting local schools to close on Monday and residents to remain vigilant.
The Incident
The incident occurred around 5:30 p.m. on Saturday, just nine miles north of London, Kentucky. Couch allegedly fired shots into 12 different vehicles on both northbound and southbound lanes of the interstate. This violent act has been described as a “random act” of violence by authorities.
Victims
While fortunately there were no fatalities, the shooting left several individuals with serious injuries. One victim was reportedly shot in the face, while another was injured across the chest. Authorities have indicated that some injuries were severe, but all victims are currently in stable condition.
The Search Efforts
Authorities are conducting a manhunt in a remote area of dense woods where Couchโs vehicle, an AR-15, and a significant amount of ammunition were found. Around 40 to 50 officers from various agencies, including local, state, and federal law enforcement, have been actively involved in the search.
Laurel County Sheriffโs Office Captain, Richard Dalrymple, announced that the search was temporarily halted overnight but would resume Monday morning. The FBI’s Louisville office is also assisting in the investigation and seeking any information about Couchโs whereabouts.
Public Safety Measures
Officials are urging residents in the area to take precautions, such as keeping doors locked, monitoring security cameras, and ensuring cell phones are charged in case they need to contact authorities. Scottie Pennington, a spokesperson for the Kentucky State Police, emphasized the need for vigilance and awareness among the community.
On Sunday, some schools in the surrounding counties, including Laurel, Jackson, and Clay, canceled classes as a precautionary measure.
Background of the Suspect
Joseph Couch is described as a White male, approximately 5 feet 10 inches tall and weighing around 154 pounds. Before the shooting incident, he legally purchased a firearm along with 1,000 rounds of ammunition just hours prior. Authorities have not yet established a clear motive for his actions.
Law enforcement noted that Couch has a minimal criminal history, stating, โWe want to get this guy because heโs shot at cars, heโs shown that heโs capable, and that means heโs capable again.โ
Community Reaction
Residents are understandably shaken by the events. One victim, Rebecca Puryear, recounted her experience while driving with her family when they heard gunshots and she realized she had been hit. โIโm a walking miracle. Iโm just blessed that Iโm still alive,โ she stated. Another witness described the terrifying moment when they heard what they initially thought was a rock hitting their car, only to later realize it was part of the shooting.
Conclusion
The community is rallying together, hoping for a swift resolution to this troubling situation as law enforcement continues to search for Couch. London Mayor Randall Weddle expressed hope that the violence would not define the community and encouraged residents to stay alert and safe.
The situation remains fluid as authorities continue their operations, monitoring for any signs of the suspect and advising those in the area to stay cautious.
Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the areaโwith deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
