The suspect in a mass shooting in southern Kentucky is on the run believed to be dangerous and armed

I-75 is shut within Laurel County for a report of a shooting incident.

By WKYT News Staff

Sep 07, 2024 10:53 PM

LEXINGTON, Ky. (WKYT) Update The suspect in a mass shooting at the intersection located in Laurel County is on the wanted and believed to be dangerous and armed.

Numerous police agencies are searching to locate Joseph A. Couch, 32, from Woodbine, KY. Couch is 5’10” tall and weighs 154 lbs. Police advise against be around him.

Laurel County Sheriff John Root states deputies were initially called to investigate an injured person shot about 5:15 p.m. Saturday, on I-75 just before exit number 49.

The moment deputies arrived they discovered that nine vehicles damaged by shots in both north and southbound roads. Five were found to be severely injured.

London Mayor Randall Weddle told WKYT the five victims were in stable condition. Three of them were taken to St. Joseph London for treatment.

The Laurel County Sheriff’s Office says police are looking to locate Joseph A. Couch, 32. He is wanted as a person of significance for the incident. According to the sheriff’s office, the suspect is dangerous and armed.

Joseph A. Couch is named as a person of interest in the shooting that occurred on Saturday night in the vicinity of I-75 located in Laurel County. It was reported that the Knox County Sheriff’s Department shared the photo of him from his previous arrests during February of 2024. (Knox County Sheriff’s Department)

Mayor Weddle is adamant that authorities are searching for Couch in the rural region within Laurel County, and they believe he’ll be located very soon.

Lexington police used a helicopter to aid in the search.

Officials are trying to ensure that citizens that they’re safe tonight due to the large numerous police agencies that are within the region.

They are also encouraging people to remain alert and stay at home.

Anyone currently located in the region is advised to follow the directions of police firefighters, police officers and road signs for any remaining routes.

KY 909 in Kentucky and U.S. 25 in Laurel County remain closed, as are the two ramps for exit 49.

This is a story that is developing.