LONDON, Ky. - A suspect remains at large following a shooting incident near Interstate 75 in southeastern Kentucky that left seven people injured on Saturday evening.
According to AP News, law enforcement agencies are conducting an extensive search for the gunman in a rural area close to the highway.
The Laurel County Sheriff's Office reported that the shooting occurred around 5:30 p.m. on Saturday near Exit 49 of Interstate 75 in London, Kentucky. Deputy Gilbert Acciardo, a spokesperson for the sheriff's office, described the scene as chaotic, with numerous vehicles pulled over on the side of the road, their emergency flashers activated, and visible bullet holes in at least nine vehicles.
Of the seven individuals affected by the incident, five suffered gunshot wounds, while two others were injured in a related vehicle accident. Authorities have stated that all victims are currently in stable condition, though some sustained serious injuries, including one person who was shot in the face.
The shooting prompted an immediate response from multiple law enforcement agencies, leading to the temporary closure of both directions of Interstate 75. The highway was reopened approximately three hours later, but the search for the suspect continued into the night.
Deputy Acciardo provided more details about the initial response:
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.
Law enforcement officials have identified a person of interest in connection with the shooting. Joseph A. Couch, a 32-year-old white male, is being sought by authorities. The public has been warned that Couch should be considered armed and dangerous, and individuals are advised not to approach him if spotted.
However, Deputy Acciardo cautioned that while Couch has been named as a person of interest, authorities "have not determined that this is the individual that fired the weapon." The search for the suspect was temporarily suspended due to darkness but was set to resume at daybreak on Sunday.
London Mayor Randall Weddle addressed the community's concerns in a video update on Facebook, urging residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity:
We're asking folks please do not go outside your home shooting because we might have first responders in that area. It's important to know you are safe. We have multiple agencies in this community, in the city of London and in Laurel County.
The shooting has prompted a response from both local and state officials. State lawmakers representing Laurel County issued a statement condemning the act of violence and encouraging residents in the affected area to stay home while the search for the suspect continues.
Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear also addressed the situation on social media, stating that he was actively monitoring the situation and offering support from state agencies. The governor called for prayers for all those involved in the incident.
Local authorities have emphasized that the investigation is ongoing and fluid. They believe that only one shooter was involved and have stated that the incident does not appear to be related to road rage. The rural and wooded nature of the area has presented challenges to search efforts.
The shooting near Interstate 75 in Kentucky has left a community on edge and raised questions about public safety on highways. As authorities continue their search for the suspect, the focus remains on bringing the perpetrator to justice and ensuring the safety of local residents. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of violent crime and the challenges faced by law enforcement in rural areas.
