Authorities continue to search for Joseph Couch, accused of shooting five people along Interstate 75 on September 7. Despite an extensive search involving multiple agencies, Couch remains on the run in a densely wooded area of southeastern Kentucky.
Joseph Couch, a 32-year-old fugitive, remains at large after allegedly shooting five people along Interstate 75 in Kentucky on September 7. Authorities have been conducting an exhaustive search for Couch, utilizing multiple agencies and resources, but he has evaded capture.
The search has been concentrated in a densely wooded area of southeastern Kentucky, described by Jeremy Honaker, acting U.S. Marshal for the Eastern District of Kentucky, as "extremely wooded and rural," bordering the Daniel Boone National Forest.
Fugitive Kentucky I-75 Shooter Still at Large Despite Extensive Search
Couch is accused of firing between 20 and 30 rounds from a wooded area near exit 49 in Laurel County. Prior to the shooting, he allegedly sent a chilling text message stating, "I'm going to kill a lot of people. Well try at least. I'll kill myself afterward."
Authorities have recovered Couch's Cobalt AR-15 rifle and a small, silver SUV, but he remains on the run. A Center Target Firearms employee revealed that Couch had spent nearly $3,000 on the rifle and 1,000 rounds of ammunition.
Fugitive Kentucky I-75 Shooter Still at Large Despite Extensive Search
Five warrants have been issued for Couch's arrest, one for each shooting victim, charging him with attempted murder and assault. The Laurel County Sheriff's Office is offering a $25,000 reward for information leading to his arrest.
Despite the extensive search, Honaker acknowledges that there is "a possibility" Couch could survive on his own in the wilderness due to his military background. However, the exact extent of his survival skills remains unknown.
Fugitive Kentucky I-75 Shooter Still at Large Despite Extensive Search
Through Thursday, four of the five shooting victims have been released from the hospital, while the fifth is expected to recover. Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear met with law enforcement during the search, expressing gratitude for their efforts.
The Laurel County Sheriff's Office and U.S. Marshals are coordinating the search, with assistance from the FBI, London Police Department, and Kentucky State Police. The agencies are working together to apprehend Couch and bring him to justice.
Fugitive Kentucky I-75 Shooter Still at Large Despite Extensive Search
Anyone with information about Couch's whereabouts is urged to contact the Laurel County Sheriff at 606-864-6600 or U.S. Marshals at 1-877-WANTED-2. The community is encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious sightings.
The search for Joseph Couch continues, and authorities remain determined to apprehend him. The extensive resources dedicated to the operation reflect the seriousness of the situation and the need to ensure public safety.
Fugitive Kentucky I-75 Shooter Still at Large Despite Extensive Search
