Search for Suspect in Kentucky Interstate Shooting Continues Into Third Day

Authorities in Kentucky remain in pursuit of Joseph A. Couch, 32, the prime suspect in a weekend shooting that left five people wounded on Interstate 75. The search for Couch entered its third day on Monday, prompting local schools to cancel classes as law enforcement scoured a remote area in southeastern Kentucky. State police confirmed that Couch’s SUV had been found near the crime scene, alongside a semi-automatic weapon believed to have been used in the attack.

Community on Edge as Search Intensifies

The shooting, which took place Saturday, saw a dozen vehicles struck by gunfire as a man opened fire from a wooded area near the highway. Initially, authorities reported nine vehicles hit but later updated the number to 12, as some drivers only discovered the damage after reaching home.

Despite using drones, helicopters, and K-9 units to comb through the rugged, hilly terrain, the search has yielded no trace of Couch. The suspect’s abandoned vehicle and an AR-15 rifle were found in the vicinity, further confirming his involvement in the attack. Authorities are urging residents in the area to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activity.

“We’re looking, and we’re trying to find him, but we haven’t found him yet,” said Deputy Gilbert Acciardo, spokesperson for the local sheriff’s office. As the search continued, he acknowledged the growing frustration among officers and the local community.

Dangerous Terrain Hinders Search Efforts

Search teams have faced significant challenges due to the area’s dense woods and rocky cliffs, with some caves deep enough to provide potential hideouts for the fugitive. “It’s like walking in a jungle,” said state trooper Scottie Pennington, describing the rugged terrain where officers use machetes to cut through thick underbrush.

Rodney Goodlett, pastor of Faith Assembly of God in London, expressed the anxiety that many locals are feeling. “This is tragic… when it hits home, it’s a wake-up call,” he said, noting that local church services had been disrupted due to the search.

Schools Closed, Community on High Alert

In response to the ongoing danger, area school districts have canceled classes, and local authorities are urging residents to lock doors, keep their lights on, and monitor security cameras. London Mayor Randall Weddle reassured the community, stating that with many law enforcement units in the area, help is always nearby.

“If you think someone’s outside your home, call 911,” Weddle advised.

An anonymous donor has offered a $10,000 reward for information leading to Couch’s capture, bringing the total reward to $15,000 when combined with a $5,000 offer from the Kentucky State Police.

Suspect’s Troubled Past and Ominous Warning

According to authorities, Couch, a former Army Reserve combat engineer, purchased the weapon used in the attack just hours before the shooting. He had served from 2013 to 2019 but was discharged without any deployments.

Authorities also revealed that Couch sent a chilling text message to a woman on the day of the attack, stating his intent to “try to kill a lot of people” roughly 30 minutes before opening fire. The woman alerted law enforcement, but the warning came too late to prevent the attack.

As the search continues, law enforcement remains determined to find the suspect. “We’re not going to quit until we lay hands on him,” said Laurel County Sheriff John Root.

Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward to help end the dangerous search.