KSP: Public should “make sure you’re being vigilant”

LAUREL COUNTY, Ky. (ABC36 NEWS NOW) – The search for 32-year-old Joseph Couch continues as authorities enter the fourth day of the manhunt. Couch is wanted in connection with a shooting near exit 49 on I-75 that left multiple people injured.

Couch, who is from Woodbine, is described as 5’10” and weighing 154 pounds. Law enforcement officials have been actively searching for him in the vast and rugged terrain of the Daniel Boone National Forest.

Kentucky State Police Trooper Scottie Pennington emphasized that their primary concern is public safety. Officials are urging anyone with information, no matter how small, to come forward as they continue verifying tips received from the public. The reward for information leading to Couch’s arrest has now been increased to $35,000.

“Make sure you’re being vigilant,” Pennington said, adding that authorities will continue the search until Couch is found.

Law enforcement has advised the public to avoid the area of the Daniel Boone National Forest where the search is focused. Pennington also asked residents to suspend outdoor activities such as hunting in the region for the time being. “We would like you, if you’re in that area, to maybe suspend your activities,” he said.

When asked about the possibility of expanding the search, Pennington confirmed that their primary focus remains on the woods, where they believe Couch is still hiding. “We’re gonna stay in the woods until we find him,” Pennington stated. “I hope he doesn’t have water. I hope he doesn’t have food, and I hope he’s just worn out and eventually he’ll walk out of the woods.”

As for whether Couch has another weapon, Pennington said that authorities are still working to determine that. “We don’t know if he has another weapon… We know he committed a harsh, cruel act of violence, and we have to consider him armed and dangerous until we locate him.”

In an abundance of caution during the search, Laurel County Schools says classes are canceled again Wednesday, September 11.

Anyone with information on Couch’s whereabouts is encouraged to contact Kentucky State Police Post 11 in London or Crime Stoppers.