Laurel County Sheriff John Root reports it all started as deputies were dispatched to a gunshot victim call off I-75 at exit 49 around 5:30 p.m. Saturday. Deputies arrived to find nine vehicles had been shot into on both north and south bound I-75. Five victims were seriously injured and transported to local hospitals. Other deputies along with the Sheriff’s office special response team, London City Police and Kentucky State Police arrived to help secure the scene. I-75 was closed for several hours during the investigation. Police have identified 32-year-old Joseph A. Couch, of Woodbine, as a person of interest in the case. Kentucky State Police were bringing in K9 units and the London Laurel Rescue Squad has brought in a drone to aid with the ongoing search. Meanwhile, Public Affairs Officer Gilbert Acciardo said they have located an AR-15 in a wooded area next to I-75. Officials are not sure why he abandoned the weapon. A vehicle, a silver Honda small SUV was found off a forestry service road near exit 49. A rifle case was also found in the vehicle. Anyone with information is urged to call London-Laurel County 911 Center by dialing 911 or 606-878-7000. Officers say Couch is considered armed and dangerous and that citizens should not approach him. London Mayor Randall Weddle released a statement thanking police and first responders for their quick response.
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