A gunman opened fire from a cliff overlooking Interstate 75 in Kentucky, injuring five people and inciting fear throughout nearby communities. The shooting prompted a manhunt for the suspect, identified as 32-year-old Joseph Couch, who reportedly texted a woman before the incident expressing intentions to harm many people and then take his own life.
After five days of searching without success, local residents Fred and Sheila McCoy began their own search in the dense wilderness of the Daniel Boone National Forest, with hopes of claiming a $35,000 reward for information on Couch’s whereabouts offered by Kentucky State Police. The community remained on high alert as schools were closed, businesses locked their doors, and residents were advised to stay away from the area.
Authorities sifted through the sprawling forest, facing treacherous conditions, while community members rallied to donate blood for the victims. After eleven days of searching, the McCoy couple discovered a decomposing body in the woods, drawn by the sight of vultures and a strong smell. Kentucky State Police later confirmed that the body, found near the shooting site, is believed to belong to Couch, although official identification is pending.
The suspected cause of death was noted as a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head, according to the state medical examiner. Investigators also found a weapon near the body, and DNA testing is underway to confirm the identity. The motive behind the initial shooting remains unclear as the investigation continues.
While investigating the area, law enforcement encountered the McCoys, who were recognized for their contribution to locating Couch. The couple is expected to receive the full reward amount for their efforts.
Couch had fired an AR-15 into several passing cars on the interstate, causing serious injuries to five victims, with at least one facing life-threatening injuries. Following the shooting, the sheriff emphasized the impact of the incident on local communities, with numerous school and business closures reported due to safety concerns.
The recent shooting in Kentucky is part of a troubling pattern, with over 397 mass shootings occurring across the United States so far this year, averaging more than one and a half incidents each day.