LONDON, Ky. — A manhunt is in progress as law enforcement searches for a gunman in southeastern Kentucky, following an incident on Saturday that left seven individuals injured due to both gunfire and a related vehicle accident.
The shooting triggered a coordinated response from multiple agencies, prompting the Laurel County Sheriff’s Office to confirm an “active shooter situation” near Interstate 75.
Deputy Gilbert Acciardo reported that authorities were alerted around 5:30 p.m. on Saturday regarding gunfire along the interstate. Upon arrival in London, a city with a population of approximately 8,000 located about 75 miles south of Lexington, they discovered numerous vehicles abandoned on the highway at Exit 49.
Acciardo described the chaotic scene, noting that initial responders encountered a “madhouse,” with emergency flashers activated and vehicles sustaining bullet damage. “Can you imagine that? Just chaotic,” he stated during a news briefing on Sunday.
Five gunshot victims were reported to be in stable condition, although some sustained severe injuries, including one individual shot in the face. Additionally, two others were injured in the vehicle accident associated with the shooting.
Traffic on both sides of the highway was blocked as investigators worked to determine the origin of the gunfire. Authorities believe there is only one shooter and assert that the incident does not appear to have stemmed from road rage.
A search conducted in a nearby wooded area was temporarily halted due to darkness and is set to resume at daybreak. “We do have the area contained right now. It’s a very fluid investigation,” Acciardo said, affirming the presence of a special response team on the scene.
Investigators have identified a “Person of Interest,” Joseph A. Couch, a 32-year-old male, who they consider armed and dangerous. The public is advised to avoid approaching him and to report any information regarding his whereabouts.
As law enforcement continues its pursuit for the shooter, local lawmakers encourage residents to remain indoors. They issued a statement condemning the violence, asserting that it does not represent the values of the community or the Commonwealth.
The interstate was temporarily closed about 9 miles north of London but reopened roughly three hours later.
During a late-night video update, London Mayor Randall Weddle reassured residents, emphasizing the importance of staying inside and reporting suspicious activity to authorities. He indicated that search teams have a general idea of where the suspect might be located.
Governor Andy Beshear has been in contact with the Kentucky State Police and the Office of Homeland Security regarding the ongoing situation, urging the community to pray for those affected by the violence.
