Kentucky Manhunt Underway After Shooting Injures Seven Near Interstate 75
A massive search is underway in southeastern Kentucky after a shooting along Interstate 75 left seven people injured, authorities reported early Sunday. The incident, which involved both a shooting and a vehicle accident, occurred near Exit 49 in London, a small city approximately 75 miles south of Lexington.
Chaotic Scene on the Highway
Deputy Gilbert Acciardo of the Laurel County Sheriff’s Office described the scene as chaotic when officers arrived on Saturday evening. “When our first two units got to the scene there, they said it was a madhouse: people on the sides of the road, emergency flashers going, bullet holes, windows shot out, nine vehicles shot. Can you imagine that? Just chaotic,” Acciardo said during a press conference.
The violent event, which began around 5:30 p.m., resulted in five people suffering gunshot wounds. Although all the victims were reported in stable condition early Sunday, some sustained severe injuries, including one person shot in the face. Two others were injured in a related vehicle accident.
Search for the Gunman
Authorities immediately launched an extensive search for the shooter, deploying officers from multiple law enforcement agencies. Police blocked both directions of traffic along Interstate 75 due to uncertainty about where the shots were fired from. “We’re still attempting to determine that,” Acciardo stated.
Despite the intensity of the search, it was suspended overnight due to darkness, which hampered visibility and increased the risk for law enforcement officers. The search was set to resume at daybreak. The sheriff’s office stated that a “Person of Interest,” identified as 32-year-old Joseph A. Couch, is wanted in connection with the shooting. The man is considered armed and dangerous, and the public is urged not to approach him.
Reassuring Words from Acciardo
Acciardo emphasized that authorities have not yet confirmed whether Couch is the shooter. The investigation remains fluid, with officers working to gather more details. “We do have the area contained right now,” Acciardo said.
Community on Edge
Governor Andy Beshear addressed the situation on social media, stating he is closely monitoring the investigation. “Please pray for everyone involved,” Beshear said in a post on X (formerly Twitter).
Mayor’s Plea for Calm
As tensions mounted, London Mayor Randall Weddle released a video update late Saturday night, asking residents to remain calm and stay indoors unless necessary. “We’re asking folks, please do not go outside your home shooting because we might have first responders in that area,” Weddle said. He reassured the public that multiple agencies are actively working to bring the situation under control.
The interstate, initially closed following the incident, reopened three hours later.
Authorities continue their search for Joseph A. Couch and encourage anyone with information on his whereabouts to contact local authorities immediately.