A gunman opened fire from a cliff on Interstate 75 in Kentucky, injuring five people and instilling fear in nearby communities. Authorities initiated a manhunt for 32-year-old Joseph Couch, who had allegedly messaged a woman before the incident expressing his desire to “kill a lot of people” and to take his own life afterward.
As the search prolonged over eleven days, Fred and Sheila McCoy ventured into the Daniel Boone National Forest, motivated by a $35,000 reward for information leading to Couch’s capture. Fred McCoy emphasized the danger Couch posed, noting, “Anyone who can sit up on top of a hill and take pop shots at cars is dangerous.”
The community faced disruption as schools closed, businesses restricted access, and law enforcement combed through rugged terrain, struggling against natural challenges during their search. While locals contributed blood for the injured victims, thousands of tips poured in, but Couch remained elusive.
The search concluded when the McCoys discovered a decomposing body after being drawn to an area by circling vultures. Kentucky State Police later confirmed that the body, located in remote brush near Interstate 75, is believed to belong to Couch, although formal identification remains pending.
Authorities believe the body has associations with Couch based on items found with it. A weapon was also discovered at the scene. Preliminary autopsy findings indicated a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head, and toxicology tests are underway.
While the situation has not yet revealed a motive for the shooting, the investigation continues. Laurel County Sheriff John Root expressed regret that Couch was not found alive, wishing for the opportunity to understand Couch’s intentions.
The McCoys are expected to receive the full reward amount for their discovery. Sheriff Root commended the couple for their involvement in resolving the manhunt and restoring some peace to the community.
Couch’s shooting spree involved him firing an AR-15 at vehicles on the interstate, leading to serious injuries among several victims and causing widespread alarm. Following the incident, local schools and businesses took precautions as authorities worked diligently to capture the suspect. The incident is part of a troubling trend of gun violence, with more than 397 mass shootings reported this year in the United States.