Classes Canceled in Kentucky as Highway Shooter Remains at Large

Schools across multiple districts in Kentucky are remaining closed as the search continues for a suspect connected to a mass shooting that occurred over the weekend. The investigation has now reached its third day.

Authorities have identified 32-year-old Joseph A. Couch as the primary suspect in the shooting incident, which began around 5:30 PM local time on Saturday near the interstate highway in Laurel County. This information was confirmed by the Laurel County Sheriff’s Office.

When deputies arrived at the scene, they discovered five individuals with gunshot wounds near Exit 49. The shooting also resulted in damage to nine vehicles in the vicinity, according to Deputy Gilbert Acciardo, a spokesperson for the sheriff’s office.

All five victims are reported to be in stable condition, though some suffered severe injuries and required urgent medical attention. In a few cases, deputies transported the injured to an area hospital themselves.

The perpetrator is thought to have fired shots into both the northbound and southbound lanes of the interstate. Couch has been described by law enforcement as a white male, approximately 5’10” tall and weighing around 154 pounds. He is considered armed and dangerous, prompting officials to warn the public against approaching him.

“We’re determined to find this guy,” Acciardo stated, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.

Law enforcement officials have also located a silver-colored SUV believed to be a Toyota, which was found on a road off Exit 49 on Saturday night. Inside the vehicle, they discovered a rifle case.

On Sunday afternoon, investigators reported finding an AR rifle near Interstate 75, in close proximity to where the SUV was located. This development has raised further concerns about the safety of the surrounding areas.

As a precautionary measure, numerous schools in the region will remain closed on Monday. Some institutions have opted to transition to virtual learning until further notice. The affected schools include:

Barbourville Independent

Clay County

Corbin Independent

East Bernstadt Independent

EKU-Corbin

EKU-Manchester

Jackson County

Knox County

Laurel County

Lincoln County

Red Bird Christian School

Rockcastle County

Whitley County

Williamsburg Independent

Authorities continue to work diligently on the case, aiming to locate Couch and ensure the safety of the community. The impact of the shooting has reverberated throughout the region, with many residents feeling heightened anxiety as the investigation unfolds.

As the search goes on, the community remains alert, and local law enforcement is working with community members to gather any information that may lead to the apprehension of the suspect. The involvement of schools in the safety protocols reflects the seriousness of the situation, with education taking a back seat for security concerns.

The community is urged to report any sightings or information related to Couch, as well as to remain vigilant during this uncertain time.