Joseph A Couch, 32, is the man at the center of a massive manhunt following a shooting spree along Interstate 75 in southeastern Kentucky. Suspected of firing into 12 vehicles and injuring five people, Couch has been the target of a daylong search by local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies.
The incident
On Saturday evening, Couch allegedly opened fire from a cliff above the interstate, targeting vehicles traveling both northbound and southbound.Authorities responded to reports of gunfire around 5:30 pm (local time), and Couch was quickly identified as a suspect after police recovered his abandoned SUV and an AR-15 rifle near the scene. In total, 20 to 30 rounds were fired, hitting 12 vehicles and leaving five people injured. Despite serious injuries, including one person shot in the face, all victims were reported to be in stable condition.
The manhunt
The search for Couch has focused on a rugged, wooded area near the interstate, just outside the city of London, Kentucky. A drone and helicopter equipped with infrared technology have been employed to track his movements, but the challenging terrain has hindered efforts. Authorities suspended the search after nightfall on Sunday but are expected to resume early Monday.
Local residents have been urged to lock their doors and avoid the search area, as Couch is believed to be armed and dangerous. Laurel County public schools canceled Monday classes as a precaution.

Couch’s background
Couch has a military background, having served in the National Guard for four years with an engineer battalion. Despite his service, he has had minor run-ins with the law, including a 2015 conviction for criminal mischief and unlawful transactions with a minor. Earlier this year, he was charged with “terroristic threatening,” but the case was dismissed due to the victim’s failure to appear in court.
Authorities are still investigating Couch’s motives for the shooting, which they described as a “random act” of violence. However, no specific targets were identified, and law enforcement officials emphasized that the attack appeared to be unplanned.

Community response
The shootings have rattled the small community of London, Kentucky, with several local churches canceling services and residents anxiously following updates. Cody Shepherd, a local resident, noted that police scanners and helicopters dominated the weekend as authorities searched for Couch.
“This is tragic… It’s a wake-up call when it hits home,” said Rodney Goodlett, pastor of Faith Assembly of God.
As the search continues, police remain determined to bring Couch into custody, vowing to leave no stone unturned in the hunt.