Authorities are searching for a suspect after a shooting incident on Saturday evening near Interstate 75 in southeastern Kentucky left seven people injured. The manhunt, which began early Sunday, is focused on a rural area around London, a small city approximately 75 miles south of Lexington.
The shooting occurred around 7 p.m. local time, with the Laurel County Sheriff's Office reporting that "numerous people were shot" near Exit 49 of the highway. Upon arrival, deputies found a chaotic scene with several vehicles on the side of the road, emergency flashers activated, and bullet holes evident in at least nine vehicles.
Deputy Gilbert Acciardo described the scene as a "madhouse," with people scattered along the roadside and multiple vehicles damaged. Five victims were confirmed to be in stable condition early Sunday, although some sustained "very serious" injuries, including one person who was shot in the face.
The University of Kentucky Medical Center in Lexington has received at least two patients from the shooting, according to a spokesperson.
Authorities believe there was a single shooter involved but do not think the incident was related to road rage. The sheriff's office is currently searching for 32-year-old Joseph A. Couch, who is described as a White male, approximately 5-foot-10 and weighing 154 pounds. A photo of Couch has been released, though Acciardo noted that it has not yet been confirmed whether Couch is the shooter.
Trooper Scottie Pennington of the Kentucky State Police has advised residents in Laurel County to stay indoors as the search continues. London Mayor Randall Weddle also addressed the community in a video update, urging residents to avoid venturing outside and to report any suspicious activity to 911. He emphasized that multiple agencies are working together to ensure public safety.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms has joined state and local authorities to assist with the investigation, which has been described as a "critical incident."
Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear expressed his support via social media, stating, "I am receiving initial reports from the Kentucky State Police and our Office of Homeland Security. We are actively monitoring the situation and offering support in any way possible. Please pray for everyone involved."
No additional details about the incident were immediately available.
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