Manhunt in Kentucky: Authorities Search for Suspected Interstate Shooter

Kentucky police are searching for Joseph Couch, suspected of shooting and injuring five people on a rural stretch of Interstate 75. The manhunt involves multiple agencies and sophisticated technology. The incident began Saturday and has led to significant local disruption, including school closures and highway shutdowns.

Kentucky police are conducting an intensive search in a remote, heavily wooded area for Joseph Couch, who allegedly opened fire on vehicles along a rural section of Interstate 75, injuring five people. Residents have been warned to avoid the area.

Couch, 32, was identified as a suspect after authorities found his car and a rifle case near the shooting site. The Laurel County Sheriff's office recovered an AR rifle near the car. In response, local schools canceled classes, and major of London, Kentucky, Randall Weddle, advised people to stay clear.

The manhunt, complicated by rugged terrain, involves federal, state, and local agencies using helicopters and drones. The attack, which resulted in five victims sustaining serious but stable injuries, led to hours-long highway closure and highlights a recent uptick in gun violence.

(With inputs from agencies.)