On September 7, 2024, a gunman on a cliff overlooking Kentucky’s Interstate 75 began shooting at cars, injuring five people and causing widespread fear in surrounding communities. The attacker, identified as Joseph Couch, had sent a text to a woman threatening to “kill a lot of people” and then himself, leading to an urgent manhunt.
For eleven days, law enforcement searched the challenging terrain of Daniel Boone National Forest for Couch. The effort was hampered by difficult conditions, including sinkholes, caves, and thick brush. Despite extensive searches using drones, helicopters, and ground teams, Couch remained elusive.
Fred and Sheila McCoy joined the search, motivated by a $35,000 reward for information leading to Couch’s capture. Their goal was to help ensure community safety and possibly claim the reward. Their efforts were part of a broader search effort that saw thousands of tips from across the country.
As the manhunt continued, the community faced significant disruptions. Schools were closed, businesses restricted access, and residents were advised to stay away from the forested areas. The vast and difficult-to-navigate forest, larger than both Los Angeles and New York City combined, posed significant challenges for the search teams.
Gunman’s Death Ends 11-Day Manhunt in Kentucky After Shooting Spree Injures Five
On the eleventh day, the McCoys, while searching, noticed vultures circling and detected a strong odor of decay. Their discovery led to the finding of a decomposing body, which was later believed to be Couch. The body was located in a remote area of the forest near I-75, close to the shooting site. Although not officially identified yet, police were confident the body was Couch based on associated items.
The body’s discovery was confirmed by Kentucky State Police, who noted that the body was found with items linked to Couch. A weapon was also found at the scene. The police commissioner stated that the discovery brought closure to the manhunt, although formal identification was still pending.
Authorities have not yet disclosed Couch’s motive for the shooting. His death prevented law enforcement from directly questioning him to understand his intentions. The incident left many questions unanswered but marked the end of a tense and prolonged search.
In recognition of their role, the McCoys were awarded $25,000 in total from Laurel County Crime Stoppers and a private donor. The resolution of the manhunt provided relief to the community, which had experienced considerable disruption and fear. The case underscored broader issues of gun violence, reflecting a troubling trend of mass shootings across the country.
