Manhunt continues for highway shooter in Kentucky

Authorities identified Joseph A. Couch as their suspect in shootings that seriously wounded five people in southeast Kentucky on Saturday. Law enforcement members believe Couch set up on a cliffside overlooking Interstate 75, where he shot at least a dozen vehicles. The attack caused severe injuries, with one motorist shot in the face and another across the chest, Laurel County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Gilbert Acciardo said Sunday night.

Couch legally purchased a gun and about 1,000 rounds of ammunition on Saturday morning in a town less than 10 miles from the shooting site, according to Laurel County Sheriff John Root. Authorities searched Couch’s home on Sunday night. Couch served as an engineer battalion in the National Guard for four years, said Capt. Richard Dalrymple of the Laurel County Sheriff’s Office.

Where is the search going? Authorities began searching Saturday night and located a small SUV registered in the suspect’s name and a rifle also in the vicinity. Laurel County Sheriff’s office on Monday led the shooting investigation, while Kentucky State Police took over the manhunt. Teams on the ground were joined by a helicopter, dogs, and drones to search for the gunman who was considered armed and dangerous. Schools in several school districts, including a community college, canceled classes on Monday for safety concerns.