Cars shot at on Kentucky highway spark manhunt | US News
A manhunt is currently underway as at least seven people were injured by a gunman who opened fire on cars on a highway in Kentucky. Witnesses described the scene as “a madhouse”.
Authorities have warned that the suspect, who is still at large, should be considered armed and dangerous. Residents have been advised to stay indoors for safety.
The shooting occurred near the small city of London, approximately 75 miles south of Lexington, around 5:30pm local time on Saturday.
Deputy Gilbert Acciardo from the Laurel County Sheriff’s Office described the chaotic scene with people on the sides of the road, emergency flashers going off, bullet holes, and damaged vehicles.
Deputy Gilbert Acciardo says it was ‘chaotic’ in the aftermath of the shooting. Pic: AP
Five people sustained gunshot wounds and are currently in stable condition, though some have severe injuries, including one individual who was shot in the face, according to Mr. Acciardo.
Two others were injured in a crash caused by the shooting incident.
A search in a remote wooded area by law enforcement, which was halted overnight due to darkness, was scheduled to resume at daybreak on Sunday.
Mr. Acciardo stated: “We have the area contained at the moment. This is an ongoing investigation, and our personnel are still onsite. Our special response team is also present as we continue our efforts to locate the shooter.”
The sheriff’s office identified a “person of interest” in connection to the shooting, warning the public not to approach him. The individual is named Joseph A Couch, though authorities have not confirmed if he is the shooter.
Joseph A Couch has been named as a ‘person of interest’. Pic: Laurel County Sheriff’s Office/ Facebook
Mayor Randall Weddle of London confirmed in a video statement that there were no fatalities from the shooting and urged the community to remain safe. He advised residents to stay indoors to allow first responders to operate freely.
Multiple agencies are involved in managing the situation and providing support in London and Laurel County.
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Trooper Scottie Pennington of the Kentucky State Police emphasized the importance of staying indoors as the suspect remains at large.
Kentucky governor Andy Beshear urged for prayers for all those affected by the incident, assuring that authorities are actively monitoring the situation and offering support.
The highway, which was closed for nine miles north of London after the shooting, later reopened about three hours later, according to law enforcement.
