Body Found Near Laurel County Linked to Shooting Incident
Laurel County, KY – In a significant development, Kentucky State Police (KSP) have discovered a body in the vicinity of where a shooting occurred off Interstate 75 almost two weeks ago. Authorities believe the body is that of **Joseph Couch**, the suspected shooter in the incident. The discovery took place around 3:30 PM on Wednesday near exit 49 off I-75.
Search Efforts Reach a Conclusion
The body was found by two troopers and two civilians who had been searching the area. KSP troopers had been actively working the scene, and their attention was drawn to the area when they noticed vultures circling nearby, as well as the distinct smell of something **decomposing**.
As the troopers ventured into the woods, they encountered Sheila and Fred McCoy, who were also conducting their search. Shortly after their interaction, the group discovered the body. Although the coroner has yet to officially confirm the identity of the deceased as Couch, police have indicated that there were “**articles associated with the body**” that led them to believe it is him. However, police have not disclosed what those articles are.
Investigation Continues
The body has been sent to the Frankfort Medical Examiner’s office for formal identification. KSP Commissioner Col. Phillip Burnett Jr. expressed his confidence that this discovery brings closure to the search for Joseph Couch.
Laurel County Sheriff John Root also addressed the situation. He stated that with the investigation nearing completion, he hopes the county can return to its normal operations. Additionally, Root mentioned that Couch’s family has been cooperative throughout the search process and should not be blamed for Couch’s actions. “I really wish we could have located Joe Couch and we would’ve had him live,” Root said. “We could have asked him what his intentions were. Put him through the courts… prosecutors could have prosecuted him. Nobody on this stage would wish we found him in the condition we found him.”
Community Involvement
Even though the search may be reaching its conclusion, detectives and officers remain on the scene to process any remaining information. The McCoy family, who had taken an active role in the search, expressed excitement upon finding the body. They had been streaming their search efforts on YouTube, sharing their experiences and findings. “If someone is dead, there will be vultures. Follow the vultures,” they remarked.
As a reward for their contributions, the McCoy’s will receive the **$35,000** reward offered by KSP and private donors for information leading to Couch.
Background of the Incident
Authorities have been focusing their search largely on the **Daniel Boone National Forest**, which spans nearly **28,000 acres**. This intense search effort began after police found Couch’s abandoned **Toyota** on a hilltop near a forest access road the night following the shooting. The next day, they discovered an **AR-15** firearm that they believe was used in the incident. Fortunately, no fatalities occurred during the shooting, and all reported injuries were deemed **non-life-threatening**.
As the Laurel County community reflects on the recent events, residents hope for healing and a return to peace. The ongoing investigation and discoveries from the past weeks have left an indelible mark on the area, but authorities are committed to ensuring justice prevails regarding the troubling events that unfolded.
