The search for Joseph Couch, a man accused of opening fire on vehicles and injuring five people on a Kentucky highway, entered its 11th day. Couch shot at motorists on Interstate 75 in southeastern Kentucky on September 7, hitting a dozen vehicles and wounding five people. The massive manhunt initially focused on the Daniel Boone National Forest but has now shifted to surrounding communities to enhance public safety. Law enforcement officials are increasing their presence in residential areas, including patrols on roadways, security at schools, and bus routes. Since the shooting, over 400 tips have been received, pointing to areas outside of the forest.
Couch purchased an AR-15 and ammunition the morning of the shooting and sent a text message to the mother of his child planning to “kill a lot of people” before killing himself. Despite finding his car and the weapon used in the shooting, Couch remains at large and has been named a fugitive by the U.S. Marshals. He faces charges of attempted murder and assault. Officials are offering a $35,000 reward for information leading to his arrest.
Authorities are working with the Federal Fugitive Task Force to capture Couch. Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear emphasized the importance of community safety and the need to return to day-to-day life despite the ongoing manhunt. The focus is now on integrating law enforcement into the community to provide a better public safety outcome and reassure citizens that authorities are present and vigilant.
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