A tense situation unfolded on Saturday evening along Interstate 75 near London, Kentucky, where an active shooter left multiple people injured, prompting a massive law enforcement response. The Laurel County Sheriff's Office confirmed that several individuals were shot, and a manhunt is now underway for a suspect identified as 32-year-old Joseph A. Couch, who is considered armed and dangerous.
The incident occurred approximately nine miles north of London, a small city nestled in Eastern Kentucky. As law enforcement scrambled to secure the area, a significant portion of I-75 was closed, causing major disruptions. Authorities have described the attack as an "active shooter situation," sparking widespread concern among residents and travelers alike.
Initial reports suggest that between four and six people were injured in the shooting, with some of the injuries resulting from related highway collisions. London Mayor Randall Weddle confirmed in a video statement that, while the situation was severe, no fatalities had been reported. "No one was killed from this, thankfully," Weddle said. "But we ask that you continue to pray."
Couch, who has been named as a person of interest, is described as a white male, standing 5 feet 10 inches tall and weighing approximately 154 pounds. The Laurel County Sheriff's Office and Kentucky State Police have urged the public not to approach him but to immediately report any sightings to the authorities.
The local Saint Joseph London hospital issued a statement confirming that it had received multiple patients from the incident, all of whom were being treated for minor injuries. The hospital expressed its shock and sorrow over the events, stating, "We are devastated by the events that occurred along Interstate 75 in Laurel County, Kentucky Saturday night."
The situation has drawn attention from state and federal agencies. Governor Andy Beshear, who was speaking at the Texas Democratic Party's annual dinner in Austin, acknowledged the ongoing situation, stating, "We are actively monitoring the situation and offering support in any way possible." Beshear also touched on the broader issue of gun violence in his remarks, noting that "Americans should not have to live in fear of being shot crossing bridges and overpasses. We must do better."
As the search for Couch continues, authorities have closed off sections of the highway near Exit 49 and U.S. Route 25, with traffic being diverted to alternative routes. The Mount Vernon Fire Department, assisting with the traffic redirection, advised motorists to avoid the area until further notice.
